What is the registration date for the 'WESTERN BACON CHEESEBURGER' trademark used by Hardees?

According to Hardees's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the 'WESTERN BACON' trademark was registered on September 8, 1987, and the 'CHEESEBURGER' trademark was registered on March 22, 1988. Both trademarks have been renewed. Hardees grants franchisees the right to operate under the 'Hardee's' name and use other trademarks designated for the franchised restaurant.

The trademarks are registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and are protected by federal registration. Hardees owns all rights to these Proprietary Marks, and franchisees are granted specific rights to use them under the Franchise Agreement. Franchisees must adhere to Hardees's rules when using these marks and cannot use them in unauthorized ways, such as part of a business entity name or with modifying elements.

Hardees retains the right to modify the principal name under which Hardee's Restaurants operate, and franchisees would be required to adopt the new name at their own cost. Franchisees also cannot use the Proprietary Marks in any internet domain name or e-mail address, in the operation of any internet web site or on a social media platform without Hardees's prior written consent.

Franchisees must inform Hardees of any infringement of the Proprietary Marks and cannot take any legal action without written approval from Hardees. Hardees has the right, but not the obligation, to take action against infringement. The Franchise Agreement does not require Hardees to defend or indemnify franchisees against infringement claims, but franchisees must notify Hardees of any related litigation and cooperate in defending or settling it.