How does Mr. Sandless define a 'Website' in the context of the Franchise Agreement?
Mr_Sandless Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Websites (as defined below) are considered as "advertising" under the Franchise Agreement, and are subject (among other things) to our review and prior written approval before they may be used (as described below). 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 the Business, Proprietary Marks, us, or the System. The term Website includes Internet and World Wide Web home pages.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND TRAINING (FDD pages 19–25)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Mr. Sandless's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a 'Website' is defined specifically within the context of the Franchise Agreement. The term encompasses any interactive electronic document that resides within a network of computers linked by communication software. This network must be operated by the franchisee or with their authorization. The key criterion is that the website refers to the Mr. Sandless business, its proprietary marks, the franchisor, or the Mr. Sandless system. This definition explicitly includes Internet and World Wide Web home pages.
This definition is important for prospective franchisees because it clarifies the scope of online activities that Mr. Sandless considers to be advertising and subject to their control. Mr. Sandless requires review and prior written approval before any such website can be used. This control extends to the content, design, and functionality of any online presence related to the franchise.
Mr. Sandless maintains strict control over its brand's online presence, as franchisees are generally not permitted to have individual websites related to the business or use any variation of the "Mr. Sandless" name in a URL without prior written approval. Furthermore, franchisees are prohibited from promoting their business or using Mr. Sandless's proprietary marks on social media platforms without explicit consent. This policy underscores the importance of adhering to the franchisor's guidelines for online marketing and advertising to maintain brand consistency and avoid potential breaches of the franchise agreement.