Does the Hydrodog 'System' include marketing materials?
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 Hydrodog System does include marketing materials. The FDD specifies that the 'System' encompasses various elements, including marketing methods. Furthermore, the franchisor uses and promotes certain copyrighted information, including marketing materials and advertisements. This indicates that franchisees will be provided with marketing resources as part of the overall Hydrodog franchise system.
Hydrodog franchisees are required to adhere to the System Standards, which include the franchisor's prescribed marketing methods. This suggests that franchisees must utilize the marketing materials and strategies provided by Hydrodog. The FDD also mentions a Marketing Fund, which is used to prepare advertising, promotion, and marketing materials. This fund is supported by franchisee contributions, implying that a portion of franchisee fees goes towards creating marketing resources for the benefit of the entire Hydrodog system.
Additionally, franchisees pay a nonrefundable Grand Opening Marketing Program fee of $5,000 per HydroDog Vehicle. In return, Hydrodog will create a website or webpage specific to that vehicle and provide grand opening marketing for a period of 30 days prior to opening and 60 days after. This fee does not guarantee any specific level of success, customer acquisition, or revenue generation. However, franchisees are restricted from advertising or using the Hydrodog marks on the internet or through telecommunications without express written consent from Hydrodog.