During and after the agreement, is a Gokhale Method franchisee allowed to disclose information designated as "Confidential"?
Gokhale_Method Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
- 10.3. Confidentiality. We may designate any information provided to you as "Confidential," and you agree that you will not disclose it, during or after this agreement, except as we may, in writing, permit you to do so.
Included in our Confidential Information are the Teachers' Manual; teaching scripts and Policy Statements; the information, know-how and techniques that we have imparted to you; proprietary software; and any other information we have provided to you that is not available to the general public.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 34)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to the 2024 Gokhale Method Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are generally prohibited from disclosing information that the franchisor designates as "Confidential" both during and after the franchise agreement. The FDD specifies that this restriction applies unless the franchisor provides explicit written permission to disclose such information. This is a standard practice in franchising to protect the franchisor's proprietary information and maintain a competitive advantage.
The Gokhale Method defines "Confidential Information" to include the Teachers' Manual, teaching scripts, Policy Statements, imparted know-how and techniques, proprietary software, and any other information not available to the general public. This broad definition means franchisees must be extremely careful about what information they share with others, including potential competitors or even other franchisees without express permission.
This confidentiality requirement extends beyond the term of the franchise agreement, meaning that even after a franchisee leaves the Gokhale Method system, they are still obligated to protect this confidential information. Failure to comply with this confidentiality clause could result in legal action by Gokhale Method, including potential lawsuits for breach of contract and injunctive relief to prevent further disclosure. Prospective franchisees should carefully consider the scope of this confidentiality obligation and ensure they are prepared to maintain the secrecy of sensitive information both during and after their time with Gokhale Method.