Does the Noodles & Company agreement allow for press releases and publicity materials?
Noodles_Company Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
lawful right to use any proprietary materials of others that appear on your sites or pages on Social Media. We periodically may provide to you content for your sites and pages on Social Media, including copy, news stories and photographs. We must consent to any changes to your sites and pages on Social Media. You further agree to assign to us any domain names you obtain that we, in our sole discretion, request that you transfer to us that you used in connection with the Noodles & Company concept, and you further agree to assign any and all domain names used by you in the operation and promotion of your Noodles & Company Restaurant at such time as this Agreement is terminated.
10.09 Public and Media Relations. You agree that you will not issue any press or other media releases or other communication without our prior mutual agreement. As an FAO, you agree to only participate in (internal and external) communications activities that create good will, enhance public image and build the Noodles & Company brand.
10.10 Maximum Aggregate Fund Expenses.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 99–350)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Noodles & Company Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are restricted from independently issuing press releases or other media communications. Specifically, Section 10.09 states that franchisees must obtain prior mutual agreement from Noodles & Company before releasing any press or media communications. However, as an Area Operator, franchisees can participate in internal and external communications activities that enhance the Noodles & Company brand.
Furthermore, Section 10.07 requires franchisees to submit all marketing plans, written materials, and samples of marketing, public relations, and promotional materials not prepared or previously approved by Noodles & Company for written approval at least 30 days before implementation. This approval can be withheld at Noodles & Company's discretion. Franchisees must also obtain written approval from Noodles & Company before engaging a marketing agency or sharing confidential information with them.
Noodles & Company also mandates that franchisees use the marketing materials provided by the company at the franchisee's expense. Failure to comply with these marketing and public relations requirements constitutes a material breach of the franchise agreement. These stipulations ensure that all public communications and marketing efforts align with Noodles & Company's brand standards and strategic objectives.