What trade name and service mark does a Gold Star franchise operate under?
Gold_Star Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
e Franchise.**
The Franchise offered hereunder is for the right to operate a quick casual restaurant selling "Cincinnati" chili products in various forms and formats under the trade name and service mark GOLD STAR CHILI and the right to use that mark, and any other marks, names, logos, emblems and indicia that Gold Star licenses you to use pursuant to the Franchise Agreement (the "Marks"), at a specific location (the "Retail Location") upon the terms and conditions of a Franchise Agreement. The Franchise Agreement is attached to this disclosure document as Exhibit B.
You must operate your Franchise business in accordance with the system, standards, specifications and procedures developed by Gold Star for the operation of Restaurants and the promotion and sale of GOLD STAR CHILI products from time-to-time (the "System"). Distinguishing characteristics of the System include a format (including building designs, equipment layout plans, color schemes and signage) and certain systems, procedures, methods, recipes, standards, specifications, and advertising, promotional, marketing and merchandising programs and techniques developed by Gold Star.
Source: Item 1 — The Franchisor and any Parents, Predecessors, and Affiliates (FDD pages 7–10)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Gold Star Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee operates a quick casual restaurant selling Cincinnati chili products under the trade name and service mark GOLD STAR CHILI. Franchisees also have the right to use any other marks, names, logos, emblems, and indicia that Gold Star licenses to them under the Franchise Agreement.
This means that as a Gold Star franchisee, you are granted the right to operate your restaurant using the established brand name and associated trademarks. This is a standard practice in franchising, as it allows franchisees to benefit from the recognition and reputation of the Gold Star brand. The Franchise Agreement, which is included as an exhibit to the FDD, will outline the specific terms and conditions related to the use of these marks.
Gold Star also requires franchisees to operate their businesses according to the standards and procedures developed by Gold Star, referred to as the "System." This includes adhering to specific building designs, equipment layouts, color schemes, signage, recipes, and advertising programs. By following the System, franchisees ensure consistency across all Gold Star locations, which helps to maintain brand integrity and customer expectations.