If Hydrodog franchisees use advertising materials prepared by Hydrodog, do they still need approval?
Hydrodog Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
lure, within 45 days, to resolve any issue affecting the Cooperative's establishment or effective functioning, upon request of any Cooperative member, that issue must be submitted to us for consideration, and our resolution of such issue is final and binding on all Cooperative members.
- 12.9 Local Advertising Expenditures. In addition to any Marketing Funds set forth herein, you may, but are not required to, conduct advertising for the HydroDog Business in your Territory ("Local Advertising"), provided that all such advertising is in compliance with our standards and has been approved by us in writing. If you choose to conduct Local Advertising, you shall submit to us within thirty (30) days of our request, advertising expenditure reports accurately reflecting your Local Advertising expenditures, including verification copies of all advertising and any other information that we require.
12.10 Websites and Social Media.
As used in this Agreement, the term "Website" means an interactive electronic document within a network of computers linked by communications software.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 43–166)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Hydrodog's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to obtain written approval for all advertising, even if the materials are provided by Hydrodog. Specifically, franchisees may conduct local advertising, but it must comply with Hydrodog's standards and receive prior written approval. This requirement extends to any use of Hydrodog's trademarks or marks on the internet or through telecommunications, necessitating express written consent from Hydrodog.
This approval process ensures that all advertising aligns with Hydrodog's brand standards and legal requirements. Hydrodog retains the right to mandate specific language on local advertisements, such as "Franchises Available" or "Each Franchise Location Independently Owned and Operated," along with including Hydrodog's contact information. Compliance with applicable laws and regulations is also mandatory for all advertising content.
For a prospective Hydrodog franchisee, this means that while they have the flexibility to engage in local advertising efforts, they must navigate an approval process to ensure alignment with Hydrodog's guidelines. Failure to obtain proper approval can lead to potential breaches of the franchise agreement. Franchisees should factor in the time and potential costs associated with this approval process when planning their local advertising strategies.
Hydrodog's control over advertising content is a common practice in franchising, designed to maintain brand consistency and protect the overall image of the franchise system. Franchisees should maintain open communication with Hydrodog to streamline the approval process and ensure their advertising efforts are both effective and compliant.