To whom may a Jersey Mikes franchisee divulge the franchisor's confidential information?
Jersey_Mikes Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisee any right to any copyright or patent which Franchisor now owns or may own in the future.
- 8.2 Franchisee shall divulge Franchisor's confidential information only to such of its employees as must have access to it in order to operate the Franchised Restaurant. Any and all information, knowledge and know-how, including, without limitation, drawings, materials, equipment, techniques, restaurant systems,
product formulae, recipes and other data (including customer data), used in connection with the Franchised Restaurant shall be deemed confidential for purposes of this Agreement, except information which Franchisee can demonstrate came to its attention in a lawful manner prior to disclosure by Franchisor; or which, at the time of disclosure by Franchisor to Franchisee, had become part of the public domain, through publication or communication by others, so long as such disclosure was not caused by Franchisee. Franchisee acknowledges that Franchisor is the sole owner of all confidential information, as provided in this Agreement.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 77)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Jersey Mikes's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee may only share confidential information with employees who require access to it in order to operate the franchised restaurant. This condition applies to both franchisees and developers. This ensures that sensitive business information remains protected and is only accessible to those directly involved in the restaurant's operations.
This restriction is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the Jersey Mike's system and protecting its competitive advantage. The confidential information includes various aspects of the business, such as drawings, materials, equipment, techniques, restaurant systems, product formulas, recipes, and other data designated as confidential by Jersey Mikes.
Unauthorized disclosure or use of this information can have serious consequences, potentially harming the Jersey Mike's brand and system. Franchisees must ensure that their employees understand the importance of confidentiality and adhere to these restrictions. This helps safeguard the proprietary knowledge and operational methods that contribute to the success of the Jersey Mike's franchise.