Are Noodles & Company franchisees or their affiliates prohibited from engaging in conduct or communications that disparage Noodles & Company or its brand?

According to Noodles & Company's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees and their affiliates are prohibited from engaging in any conduct or communications that disparage Noodles & Company or its brand. This requirement is specifically mentioned in the context of conditions that must be met to receive receipts under the Franchise Agreement.

This stipulation means that franchisees must be cautious about their public statements and actions, ensuring they do not negatively impact the reputation of the Noodles & Company brand. This extends not only to the franchisee but also to their affiliates, which could include business partners or related companies.

Failure to comply with this provision could have consequences, potentially affecting the franchisee's ability to renew their agreement. This clause is fairly standard in franchise agreements, as franchisors need to protect their brand image and customer perception. Franchisees should understand that maintaining a positive image is part of their contractual obligations.