What is the exclusive purpose for which each Noodles & Company Cooperative must be organized?

According to the 2025 Noodles & Company Franchise Disclosure Document, each Cooperative must be organized exclusively to administer marketing programs and develop promotional materials for use by its members, subject to Noodles & Company's approval. This means that the marketing cooperatives formed by Noodles & Company franchisees are specifically focused on marketing and promotional activities. These cooperatives cannot engage in other activities outside of this scope.

Noodles & Company retains control over these cooperatives by requiring advance written approval of the cooperative's form, manner of governance, and commencement date. Additionally, no changes to the cooperative's bylaws or governing documents can be made without Noodles & Company's prior written consent. This ensures that the cooperatives operate in a way that aligns with the brand's overall marketing strategy and standards.

Furthermore, all marketing and promotional plans or materials developed by the cooperative must be approved by Noodles & Company before they can be used or distributed to members. This approval process ensures that all marketing efforts support the brand and conform to Noodles & Company's specified standards and requirements. Franchisees must submit written samples of proposed marketing plans and materials at least 30 days before their intended use, unless the materials were prepared by Noodles & Company or have been approved within the previous six months. This requirement allows Noodles & Company to maintain brand consistency and quality control across all marketing initiatives.