Who must approve advertising materials developed by a franchisee for their Gold Star restaurant?
Gold_Star Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You may develop advertising materials for your own use, at your own cost; provided that, you must obtain Gold Star's prior written approval of these advertising materials.
Source: Item 11 — Franchisor's Assistance, Advertising, Computer Systems, and Training (FDD pages 26–36)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Gold Star Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees who wish to develop their own advertising materials must obtain prior written approval from Gold Star.
This requirement gives Gold Star control over the brand's image and messaging. It ensures that all advertising aligns with the company's overall marketing strategy and standards. While franchisees can create their own advertising, they cannot implement it without Gold Star's consent.
Gold Star has designated GSCAA to administer the Brand Building Fund and approve creative concepts, materials, and media used in advertising. This means that GSCAA, acting on behalf of Gold Star, ultimately decides whether franchisee-developed advertising is acceptable. Franchisees should factor in the time and potential costs associated with submitting materials for approval and making any required revisions.
This approval process is a common practice in franchising, designed to maintain brand consistency and protect the overall reputation of the franchise system. Prospective Gold Star franchisees should understand this requirement and be prepared to work within the established guidelines for advertising and promotion.