What does the Engel & Volkers System encompass?
Engel_Volkers Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
tate brokerage under the ENGEL & VÖLKERS System.
- 1.2 The ENGEL & VÖLKERS Group: The distinctive characteristics of the ENGEL & VÖLKERS System and international network encompass the entire experience of the Engel & Völkers affiliated group of companies (the "Engel & Völkers Group") for the operation of a residential real estate brokerage. The ENGEL & VÖLKERS Group consists of Engel & Völkers U.S. Holding GmbH, its successor or assigns (the "Parent") and other affiliated companies.
- 1.3 The "ENGEL & VÖLKERS System" includes the following elements:
- Intellectual property rights, including the trademarks ENGEL & VÖLKERS®, E&V®, GG®, GG GLOBAL GUIDE® and related marks, designs and know-how, unregistered rights to designs, and licenses, marketing and selling rights (hereinafter called "Trademarks");
- Unpatented, practical knowledge and experience of operating local real estate brokerages by the Engel & Völkers Group through experience gathered over many years (hereinafter called "Know-how");
- System-compatible interior decorations and furnishings and external design elements giving the real estate brokerage an attractive appearance, installed in accordance with Franchisor's interior decoration plans and outfitting standards (hereinafter called "Brokerage Design");
- Manuals which may be in electronic form, and all other documents describing the ENGEL & VÖLKERS System, including any amendments, additions and/or deletions or substitutions made by Franchisor (hereinafter called "System Documentation").
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 88)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Engel & Volkers Franchise Disclosure Document, the Engel & Volkers System encompasses several key elements designed to support franchisees in operating a residential real estate brokerage. These elements include intellectual property rights, such as trademarks like ENGEL & VÖLKERS®, E&V®, GG®, and GG GLOBAL GUIDE®. It also includes unpatented practical knowledge and experience gained by the Engel & Völkers Group over many years, referred to as "Know-how."
Additionally, the Engel & Volkers System incorporates specific design and aesthetic standards for the brokerage's interior and exterior, ensuring a consistent and attractive appearance across all franchise locations. These standards are detailed in interior decoration plans and outfitting standards provided by Engel & Volkers. The system is further defined and documented through manuals and other documents, available in electronic form, which describe the Engel & Volkers System. These System Documentation resources are subject to amendments, additions, deletions, or substitutions made by Engel & Volkers.
The Engel & Volkers System also includes a proprietary technology platform, known as the "Integrated Product Suite," which supports property listing management, client relationship management, and online marketing. Engel & Volkers provides ongoing business administration, technical, and marketing support to its franchisees. Initial and continuing training courses are also part of the system, ensuring franchisees and their teams are well-equipped to meet Engel & Volkers' standards. Furthermore, Engel & Volkers facilitates the exchange of information and experience among franchisees to foster a collaborative environment and continuous improvement within the network.
Engel & Volkers retains the right to modify the Engel & Volkers System to adapt to changing market conditions. These modifications may include changes to the Integrated Product Suite, System Documentation, Trademarks, and required equipment. Franchisees are required to adhere to these changes, although Engel & Volkers states that the cost to franchisees for adaptations and modifications shall not be unreasonable. Franchisees are responsible for updating their versions of the System Documentation to reflect these changes. Engel & Volkers may also develop programs and designations available only to franchisees who meet specific criteria, and participation in these programs is not guaranteed by entering into the franchise agreement.