What are the 'Proprietary Marks' used to identify the Golden Corral System?

According to the 2025 Golden Corral Franchise Disclosure Document, the 'Proprietary Marks' used to identify the Golden Corral system include trade names, service marks, trademarks, logos, emblems, and indicia of origin. The mark "GOLDEN CORRAL" is specifically mentioned, along with any other trade names, service marks, and trademarks designated by Golden Corral in the Confidential Operations Manuals or in writing for use with the System.

For a prospective franchisee, this means they are granted the right to use these Proprietary Marks to operate their Golden Corral restaurant, but only at the approved location. The franchisee's use of these marks must adhere to Golden Corral's prescribed form, color, location, and manner. All goodwill arising from the franchisee's use of the Proprietary Marks benefits Golden Corral exclusively.

Golden Corral retains the right to modify or substitute these marks if the current ones can no longer be used or if Golden Corral believes a change would benefit the system. Franchisees cannot register or sponsor any online presence (website, social media, etc.) using the Proprietary Marks without Golden Corral's approval. Franchisees acknowledge that Golden Corral owns all rights to the Proprietary Marks and that their license to use them is non-exclusive, except as otherwise provided in the franchise agreement.

Franchisees must use the Proprietary Marks in accordance with the franchise agreement. If they do, Golden Corral will defend the franchisee against third-party claims regarding the ownership or validity of the Proprietary Marks. If the franchisee does not use the marks according to the agreement, the franchisee will bear the expense of their own defense against such claims.