Does Exit require domain names to be approved by the Subfranchisor?
Exit Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisee's legal entity name. Franchisee's legal name shall not include the name "EXIT."
- (C) Franchisee may not change the Trade Style name or the legal name without prior written consent of Subfranchisor, which shall not be unreasonably withheld.
- (D) If Franchisee decides to advertise, promote, or otherwise conduct business by means of the Internet or World Wide Web, Franchisee shall also utilize a domain name which includes the word "EXIT" and the EXIT Logo. Any such domain name must be approved by Subfranchisor in writing prior to Franchisee's use of it. All marketing shall be in accordance with the standards and guidelines provided in the Training Manuals.
- (E) Neither the Trade Style name nor any domain name, application name or social media profile name may include the words "National, International, Canada, U.S., or North America," nor provide any indication that the Franchisee has the exclusive rights under this Agreement to more than the Protected Territory.
9.4. Written Materials; Advertising; Signs
- (A) Franchisee shall feature in the operation of its real estate service and in all materials and advertising, the distinguishing characteristics of the System in accordance with the Training Manual (as defined in Section 43) or as contained in specific directives from Subfranchisor or EXIT as may be issued from time to time.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 42–235)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Exit's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a franchisee decides to advertise, promote, or otherwise conduct business by means of the Internet, they must utilize a domain name that includes the word "EXIT" and the EXIT Logo. Any such domain name must be approved by the Subfranchisor in writing before the franchisee uses it. All marketing must adhere to the standards and guidelines provided in the Training Manuals.
This means that as an Exit franchisee, you cannot independently choose and use a domain name for your business's website or online marketing efforts. You must first seek and obtain written approval from the Subfranchisor for any domain name you intend to use. This requirement ensures that your domain name aligns with Exit's brand standards and marketing guidelines.
Additionally, the FDD states that the domain name cannot be all-encompassing and cannot depict the Franchise as owning more territory than is spelled out in the contract or that the Franchise represents the Subfranchise or EXIT. If there is doubt, the franchisee must clarify with EXIT before approving any domain names. This ensures that the franchisee does not misrepresent the scope of their territory or their relationship with the broader Exit organization.