Can Hck Hot Chicken modify its Marks and trade dress?
Hck_Hot_Chicken Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- 11.7 Modification of Marks.
From time to time, in the HCK Hot Chicken Brand Standards Manual or in directives or bulletins supplemental thereto, Franchisor may add to, delete or modify any or all of the Marks and trade dress.
Franchisee shall, at its cost and expense, use, or cease using, as may be applicable, the Marks and/or trade dress, including any such modified or additional trade names, trademarks, service marks, logotypes and commercial symbols, in strict accordance with the procedures, policies, rules and regulations contained in the HCK Hot Chicken Brand Standards Manual or in written directives issued by Franchisor to Franchisee, as though they were specifically set forth in this Agreement.
Except as Franchisor may otherwise direct, Franchisee shall implement any such change within 60 days after notice thereof by Franchisor, at Franchisee's expense.
Source: Item 21 — FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (FDD page 54)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Hck Hot Chicken's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Hck Hot Chicken has the right to modify its Marks and trade dress. Specifically, Hck Hot Chicken may add to, delete, or modify any or all of the Marks and trade dress, as outlined in the HCK Hot Chicken Brand Standards Manual or in directives or bulletins. These changes can occur from time to time.
As a franchisee, you are obligated to use or cease using the Marks and/or trade dress as directed by Hck Hot Chicken, including any modified or additional trade names, trademarks, service marks, logotypes, and commercial symbols. This must be done in strict accordance with the procedures, policies, rules, and regulations in the HCK Hot Chicken Brand Standards Manual or written directives. These changes are considered part of the franchise agreement, as if they were specifically written into the agreement itself.
Furthermore, franchisees are generally required to implement any such changes within 60 days after receiving notice from Hck Hot Chicken. The franchisee bears the cost and expense of implementing these changes. This means that franchisees need to be prepared to update signage, marketing materials, and other branded items at their own expense to comply with Hck Hot Chicken's modifications to the Marks and trade dress.