Are marketing strategies considered 'Know-how' for an Itan franchise?
Itan Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- "Know-how" means and includes our (and our affiliates') trade secrets and other proprietary information relating to the design, construction, development, marketing or operation of a Salon including, but not limited to: architectural plans, drawings and specifications for a prototype Salon; site selection criteria; menu systems; methods and techniques; standards and specifications; policies and procedures; supplier lists and information; marketing strategies; merchandising strategies; financial information; and information
comprising the System or included in the Manual.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 44–190)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Itan's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, marketing strategies are considered part of the 'Know-how' for an Itan franchise. The FDD defines 'Know-how' as the franchisor's trade secrets and proprietary information related to the operation of a Salon. This includes various elements such as architectural plans, site selection criteria, menu systems, methods, techniques, standards, specifications, policies, procedures, supplier lists, financial information, and importantly, marketing strategies.
For a prospective Itan franchisee, this means that Itan's marketing strategies are considered confidential and proprietary. Franchisees are expected to maintain the confidentiality of this information, as detailed in the Confidentiality Agreement. This obligation extends to employees and independent contractors of the franchisee, who may also gain knowledge of Itan's System and Know-how.
The FDD emphasizes the importance of protecting Itan's intellectual property for the success of the franchise system. Misuse of this intellectual property, including the marketing strategies, could jeopardize the entire system. Franchisees and their personnel must agree to refrain from using the Intellectual Property or Confidential Information for any purpose other than the operation of their Itan Salon. This includes not disclosing the marketing strategies to competitors or using them in any unauthorized manner.