What am I required to do with the HydroDog Vehicle after the agreement expires?
Hydrodog Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
(g) you, upon notice from us, automatically transfer to us or our designee ownership and right of possession of the HydroDog Vehicle; and
(h) you agree that our trailer shape and design embodies our Marks and is integral to our Goodwill, and you will completely de-identify the shape, size and color of the HydroDog Vehicle, to our sole satisfaction and at your own expense, which may, at our option, require you to remove its outer shell, or build a different shaped shell around the shell.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 43–166)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Hydrodog's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, upon expiration of the franchise agreement, several actions are required regarding the HydroDog Vehicle. Specifically, if Hydrodog does not exercise its option to purchase the business, the franchisee must transfer ownership and possession of the HydroDog Vehicle to Hydrodog or its designee, upon notice from Hydrodog.
Additionally, the franchisee is obligated to completely de-identify the HydroDog Vehicle to Hydrodog's satisfaction and at the franchisee's own expense. This may include removing the outer shell or building a different shaped shell around it. This requirement acknowledges that the trailer's shape and design embody Hydrodog's marks and are integral to its goodwill.
In summary, franchisees must be prepared to relinquish both ownership and the distinctive appearance of the HydroDog Vehicle at the end of the franchise term, ensuring no confusion among the public and maintaining the brand's integrity. These stipulations are fairly standard in the franchise industry, as franchisors seek to protect their brand identity and prevent unauthorized use of their trademarks after a franchise agreement concludes.