How are websites defined under the Hydrodog Franchise Agreement?
Hydrodog Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
As used in the Franchise Agreement, the term "Website" means an interactive electronic document contained in a network of computers linked by communications software that you operate or authorize others to operate and that refers to your HydroDog Business, Marks, us, or the System. The term Website includes Internet and World Wide Web home pages. In connection with any Website, the Franchise Agreement provides that you may not establish a Website, nor may you offer, promote, or sell any products or services, or make any use of the Proprietary Mark, through the Internet without our prior written approval. As a condition to granting any consent, we will have the right to establish any requirement that we deem appropriate, including a requirement that your only presence on the Internet will be through one or more web pages that we establish on our Website.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND TRAINING (FDD pages 22–30)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Hydrodog's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a "Website" is defined as an interactive electronic document within a network of computers linked by communications software. This network is operated by the franchisee or someone authorized by them, and it refers to the franchisee's HydroDog Business, Marks, HydroDog itself, or the HydroDog System. This definition includes both Internet and World Wide Web home pages.
HydroDog maintains exclusive control over all websites related to the brand. Franchisees are prohibited from establishing their own websites or using the Proprietary Mark online without prior written approval from HydroDog. Even with consent, HydroDog reserves the right to set requirements, potentially limiting a franchisee's online presence to a webpage established by HydroDog on their main website.
This policy ensures brand consistency and quality control across all online platforms. It also allows HydroDog to manage the brand's online image and marketing strategies effectively. For a prospective franchisee, this means they will have limited autonomy over their online presence and must adhere to HydroDog's guidelines and approvals for any online activities related to their franchise.