Must Ledgers authorize the use of Licensed Marks in writing?

According to Ledgers's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees may only use the Licensed Marks as authorized by Ledgers in writing and under the terms of the Franchise Agreement. Furthermore, franchisees are prohibited from using the Licensed Marks in the name of any corporate entity they establish. This stipulation ensures that Ledgers maintains control over its brand identity and how it is represented in the marketplace.

This requirement means that a prospective Ledgers franchisee must obtain explicit written approval from Ledgers for any use of its trademarks. This includes, but is not limited to, marketing materials, signage, and online presence. The franchisee cannot assume that they have the right to use the marks in any manner they see fit simply by virtue of signing the Franchise Agreement.

The written authorization requirement protects Ledgers's trademarks and ensures consistent brand representation across all franchise locations. It also allows Ledgers to monitor and control how its brand is perceived by the public. For a franchisee, this means adhering strictly to Ledgers's guidelines and seeking approval for any deviations to avoid potential breaches of the Franchise Agreement.