Does the Hydrodog 'System' include advertisements?
Hydrodog Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
ur "System Standards"). A key to the development, operation, franchising and success of the HydroDog Businesses is the use of our System. The "System" includes, but is not limited to, distinctive designs, layouts, color schemes and signs, equipment, inventory, marketing methods, service requirements, standards and specifications, products, inventory, and suppliers; rules; training and assistance; and other methods and procedures relating to the establishment and operation of a HydroDog Business.
We use, promote and license in the operation of HydroDog Businesses certain trademarks, service marks and other commercial symbols, including the trade and service mark "HydroDog" and other assorted associated logos, designs, and commercial symbols (collectively, the "Marks"). We also use, promote and license in the operation of HydroDog Businesses certain information capable of being rendered into tangible form that we claim as our copyrights, including spreadsheets, pro forma documents, forms, marketing materials, manuals, pricing lists, vendor lists, product and service offering menus, formulas, advertisements, our website, and any other written materials, marketing materials or advertisements (including the look, compilation, feel and content of them) (collectively, the "Copyrights").
Each HydroDog Business operates on a mobile basis using the HydroDog Vehicle within a defined geographic area approved by us within which your HydroDog Business must confine its operations and must provide only the Products and Services we designate or approve in accordance with our System and using our Marks and Copyrights.
We grant to persons who meet our qualifications and are willing to undertake the investment and effort, a franchise to own and operate a single HydroDog Business offering the Products and Services we authorize and approve and utilizing the Marks, Copyrights and System.
You have applied for a franchise to own and operate a HydroDog Business and we have accepted your application.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 43–166)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Hydrodog's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the 'System' includes advertisements. The FDD specifies that the HydroDog System incorporates various elements, including marketing methods and materials, which extend to advertisements. This means that Hydrodog franchisees are expected to adhere to the franchisor's standards and specifications regarding advertising and marketing.
Hydrodog retains significant control over advertising and online presence. Franchisees must obtain written consent from Hydrodog before advertising or using the Marks on the Internet or through telecommunications. Hydrodog also reserves the right to dictate specific language for local advertising, such as "Franchises Available" or "Each Franchise Location Independently Owned and Operated," along with contact information. Furthermore, franchisees are restricted from establishing their own websites or using social media to promote their HydroDog business without prior approval from Hydrodog.
Hydrodog may establish and maintain a website to promote the brand, products, services, and franchise opportunities. While Hydrodog may designate a webpage to describe a franchisee's business, Hydrodog retains exclusive control over the website's content and operation. This indicates that Hydrodog aims to maintain a consistent brand image and marketing strategy across all franchise locations, with franchisees having limited autonomy in their advertising efforts. A franchisee must also pay a nonrefundable Grand Opening Marketing Program fee of $5,000 per HydroDog Vehicle.