What actions does Gold Star agree to take to protect the Marks and the goodwill associated with them?
Gold_Star Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
The COMPANY warrants and represents that it has such rights in and to the Marks so as to enable it to license FRANCHISEE's use of them in accordance with the terms of this Agreement and that such use will not infringe the legal or equitable rights of any persons, partnerships, limited liability companies or corporations.
The COMPANY agrees to take whatever actions it deems reasonably necessary to protect the Marks and the goodwill associated therewith.
The COMPANY retains the exclusive right, in its sole discretion exercised in good faith, to determine and undertake such actions, if any,
as it deems appropriate to prevent the infringement of the Marks or the diminution of the goodwill in the Marks.
6.8 Notice of Infringement.
FRANCHISEE agrees to advise the COMPANY promptly in writing of any potentially infringing uses of the Marks, or colorable imitations or variations thereof, by others, and of any suits brought, or claims or demands made or threatened against FRANCHISEE involving the Marks.
In the event a third party commences a legal action against FRANCHISEE challenging FRANCHISEE's right to use the Marks as authorized herein, the COMPANY (a) may, in its sole discretion, assume the defense of FRANCHISEE, utilizing counsel of the COMPANY's choice, against such legal action, and (b) shall indemnify FRANCHISEE against all damages for infringement for which FRANCHISEE is held liable in such action resulting from FRANCHISEE's authorized use of the Marks pursuant to and in compliance with the Agreement, provided that:
6.8.1 FRANCHISEE provides the COMPANY with timely notice of the institution of the action;
6.8.2 FRANCHISEE cooperates fully with the COMPANY's counsel in defending against the action; and
6.8.3 The COMPANY retains ultimate control over the strategy involved in defending against and/or resolving the action.
6.9 Franchisee's Cooperation.
If the COMPANY undertakes the defense or prosecution of any litigation pertaining to the right to use the Marks, FRANCHISEE agrees to execute any and all documents and to do such acts and things as may be necessary, in the opinion of counsel for the COMPANY, to carry out such defense or prosecution, whether the action is in the name of the COMPANY or in the name of FRANCHISEE.
Subject to Section 6.8, above, FRANCHISEE shall be entitled to retain independent legal counsel, provided that the COMPANY shall not be responsible for the cost of any such legal counsel.
- 6.10 Franchisee's Failure to Cooperate.
Section 6.7 notwithstanding, if FRANCHISEE fails to meet its obligations under Sections 6.8 and 6.9 with respect to any particular event, the COMPANY's warranties and obligations under Sections 6.7 and 6.8 shall become void with respect to such particular event, and the COMPANY shall have no liability for costs incurred or damages awarded against FRANCHISEE. EXCEPT AS SPECIFICALLY SET FORTH IN SECTION 6.8, ABOVE, THE COMPANY SHALL NOT BE LIABLE TO FRANCHISEE FOR ANY DAMAGES, COSTS, OR EXPENSES WHATSOEVER, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY LOSS OF PROFITS OR BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES, OR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND WHATSOEVER RELATING TO ANY ACTION OR OTHER MATTER INVOLVING THE MARKS OR GOODWILL ASSOCIATED THEREWITH.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 53–163)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Gold Star's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Gold Star warrants that it has sufficient rights to license the Marks to franchisees and that this use will not infringe on the rights of other entities. Gold Star agrees to take actions it deems reasonably necessary to protect the Marks and associated goodwill. The company retains the exclusive right to determine and undertake actions to prevent infringement or diminution of goodwill in the Marks.
If a third party initiates legal action against the franchisee challenging their right to use the Marks, Gold Star may assume the defense, using counsel of its choice. Gold Star will indemnify the franchisee against infringement damages they are held liable for, resulting from authorized use of the Marks, provided the franchisee gives timely notice of the action, cooperates fully with Gold Star's counsel, and allows Gold Star to control the defense strategy.
However, if the franchisee fails to meet their obligations regarding notice of infringement or cooperation in a legal defense, Gold Star's warranties and obligations become void, and Gold Star will not be liable for costs or damages incurred by the franchisee. Except as specifically outlined regarding the defense of infringement claims, Gold Star is not liable to the franchisee for any damages, costs, or expenses related to actions involving the Marks or associated goodwill.