How long does the Gold Star company have to object to a franchisee's advertising request before it's deemed approved?
Gold_Star Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
FRANCHISEE shall submit to the COMPANY (in accordance with Section 20 below), for the COMPANY's prior approval (except with respect to prices to be charged), samples of all advertising and promotional plans and materials, including signs, and all other materials displaying the Marks that FRANCHISEE desires to use and that have not been prepared or previously approved by the COMPANY. Unless FRANCHISEE receives a written objection from the COMPANY within fifteen (15) days after the effective date of FRANCHISEE's request, the COMPANY shall be deemed to have given the required approval. FRANCHISEE shall display the Marks in the manner prescribed by the COMPANY on all signs and all other advertising and promotional materials used in connection with the Store.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 53–163)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Gold Star Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee must submit all advertising and promotional plans to Gold Star for prior approval, except for pricing. Gold Star has fifteen (15) days after the effective date of the franchisee's request to provide a written objection. If the franchisee does not receive a written objection within that 15-day period, Gold Star is considered to have given the required approval.
This means that if a Gold Star franchisee wants to run a local advertising campaign, they need to plan ahead and submit their materials well in advance. If they don't hear back from Gold Star within 15 days, they can proceed with the advertising as planned. However, it is important to note that this approval is only implied and based on the absence of an objection.
It would be prudent for a franchisee to confirm the approval in writing with Gold Star before launching any major advertising initiative. This helps avoid any potential misunderstandings or disputes down the line. Additionally, franchisees must ensure their advertising adheres to all standards and requirements specified by Gold Star and complies with applicable laws and regulations.