Under what circumstances is an Engel & Volkers franchisee required to implement co-branding in their Residential Real Estate Brokerage?
Engel_Volkers Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisee acknowledges and agrees that, in addition to modifications of the ENGEL & VÖLKERS System, Franchisor may incorporate into the ENGEL & VÖLKERS System products, services or programs which Franchisor either develops or otherwise obtains rights to, which are offered and sold under names, trademarks and/or service marks other than the Trademarks and which the franchised Residential Real Estate Brokerage operated hereunder, along with other Residential Real Estate Brokerages, will be required to offer and sell (collectively, "Co-Branding"). This Co-Branding may involve changes to the Trademarks, and may require Franchisee to modify the building and premises of its Residential Real Estate Brokerage and the furnishing, fixtures, equipment, signs and trade dress at such brokerage. If Franchisee receives written notice of Franchisor's institution of Co-Branding, Franchisee must implement the Co-Branding in its Residential Real Estate Brokerage. There is no limit on Franchisor's rights to require Franchisee to make changes for Co-Branding in such circumstances.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 88)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Engel & Volkers's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees may be required to implement co-branding in their residential real estate brokerage. Co-branding involves Engel & Volkers incorporating products, services, or programs that they develop or obtain rights to, which are offered under names, trademarks, and service marks other than the Engel & Volkers trademarks.
This co-branding requirement extends to all franchised residential real estate brokerages within the Engel & Volkers system. The implementation of co-branding may necessitate changes to the Engel & Volkers trademarks and could require franchisees to modify their brokerage's building, premises, furnishings, fixtures, equipment, signs, and trade dress.
If an Engel & Volkers franchisee receives written notice from the franchisor regarding the institution of co-branding, they must implement these changes in their residential real estate brokerage. The FDD states that Engel & Volkers has no limit on its rights to require franchisees to make changes for co-branding under these circumstances, meaning franchisees must comply with any co-branding requirements instituted by the franchisor.