What is the Gold Star franchisee's obligation regarding potentially infringing uses of the Marks?
Gold_Star Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- 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 the 2025 Gold Star Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee is obligated to promptly advise Gold Star in writing of any potential infringement of the brand's marks. This includes any uses of the marks, or any imitations or variations of them, by other parties. The franchisee must also report any lawsuits, claims, or demands made or threatened against them that involve the Gold Star marks.
If a third party initiates legal action against the franchisee, challenging their right to use the Gold Star marks, Gold Star has the option to assume the defense of the franchisee. If Gold Star chooses to defend the franchisee, they will also indemnify the franchisee against any infringement damages they are held liable for, provided that the franchisee's use of the marks was authorized and in compliance with the franchise agreement.
However, the franchisee must provide timely notice of the legal action, fully cooperate with Gold Star's counsel in defending against the action, and allow Gold Star to retain ultimate control over the defense strategy. If the franchisee fails to meet these obligations, Gold Star's warranties and obligations become void, and Gold Star will not be liable for any costs or damages incurred by the franchisee.