If Gold Star decides to use substitute marks, is the franchisee required to use them?
Gold_Star Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
If it becomes advisable at any time in the COMPANY's sole discretion for the COMPANY and/or FRANCHISEE to modify or discontinue use of any of the Marks, and/or to use one or more additional or substitute marks, names, logos or indicia, FRANCHISEE agrees to do so at its expense within a reasonable time after the COMPANY so instructs FRANCHISEE in writing.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 53–163)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Gold Star's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if Gold Star decides to modify or discontinue the use of any of its marks, or decides to use substitute marks, franchisees must comply. The franchisee is responsible for the expense of changing to the substitute mark. This change must occur within a reasonable time frame after Gold Star provides written instructions.
This means that as a Gold Star franchisee, you are obligated to update your signage, marketing materials, and any other branded items to reflect the new marks at your own cost. This could involve expenses for new signs, menus, and promotional materials. The FDD specifies that this is at the franchisee's expense.
It is important for a prospective franchisee to factor in the potential costs associated with rebranding when evaluating the franchise opportunity. A prospective franchisee should inquire about how often Gold Star has changed its marks in the past and what the estimated cost of such a change would be.