What is the franchisee prohibited from using after termination of the Hck Hot Chicken franchise agreement?

According to the 2025 Hck Hot Chicken Franchise Disclosure Document, upon termination of the franchise agreement, the franchisee must immediately stop using all trade secrets, the Marks, and any confusingly similar trademark, service mark, trade name, logotype, or other commercial symbol or insignia. This means the franchisee can no longer operate under the Hck Hot Chicken brand or use any of its associated intellectual property. The franchisee must also return the Hck Hot Chicken Brand Standards Manual, all training materials, electronic files, records, customer lists, files, advertising and promotional materials, and all other written materials incorporating Trade Secrets. These materials are considered confidential and proprietary to Hck Hot Chicken.

In addition to ceasing use of intellectual property and returning materials, the franchisee is responsible for making cosmetic changes to the formerly franchised restaurant so that it no longer resembles an Hck Hot Chicken restaurant. This includes removing all materials that would identify the premises as a Hck Hot Chicken location, such as signage, distinctive cosmetic features, interior and exterior finishes, and colors. The franchisor may provide specific directions for these cosmetic changes and may request access to the premises to ensure compliance.

These post-termination obligations are standard in franchising to protect the brand's integrity and prevent consumer confusion. The restrictions ensure that a former franchisee cannot unfairly compete with the Hck Hot Chicken system by continuing to use its branding and operational methods. Failure to comply with these requirements could result in legal action by Hck Hot Chicken to enforce its rights and protect its brand. Prospective franchisees should carefully consider these obligations before entering into a franchise agreement.