Are Fitstop franchisees required to use only advertising materials approved within the preceding 12 months?
Fitstop Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
We must approve all advertising, marketing and/or other promotional materials you wish to use in connection with your Franchised Business that (a) are not designated by us in our then-current Manuals, or (b) have not otherwise been approved by us in the 12-month period preceding the contemplated use of such materials/content.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS, AND TRAINING (FDD pages 24–35)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Fitstop's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must use approved advertising and marketing materials. If a Fitstop franchisee wants to use materials not already designated by Fitstop in its current manuals or otherwise approved within the last 12 months, they must get approval from Fitstop.
To gain approval, the franchisee needs to submit the materials to Fitstop at least ten days before they plan to publish them. Fitstop will then make an effort to inform the franchisee of their decision within 30 days of receiving the materials. If the franchisee doesn't hear back within that 30-day period, the materials are considered disapproved, and the franchisee cannot use them.
Even if Fitstop initially approves the materials, they can later change their mind and require the franchisee to stop using them. This gives Fitstop ongoing control over the brand's image and messaging. This policy ensures brand consistency but may limit a franchisee's ability to quickly respond to local market conditions with unique advertising.