Does Noodles & Company have any liability if a franchisee is required to modify or discontinue the use of a Mark?
Noodles_Company Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
5.03 Discontinuance of Use of Marks. If it becomes advisable at any time for us and/or you to modify or discontinue use of any Mark and/or use one or more additional or substitute trademarks, service marks or trade dress, you agree to comply with our directions within 14 days after notice. Neither we nor our Affiliate shall have any liability or obligation whatsoever with respect to any such required modification or discontinuance of any Mark or the promotion of a substitute trademark, service mark or trade dress.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 99–350)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Noodles & Company Franchise Disclosure Document, Noodles & Company assumes no liability if a franchisee is required to modify or discontinue the use of any of its marks. The FDD states that if Noodles & Company deems it advisable to modify or discontinue the use of any mark, franchisees must comply with their directions within 14 days of notice.
This means that if Noodles & Company decides to change its logo, brand name, or other trademarks, franchisees are obligated to implement these changes at their own expense. This could involve updating signage, marketing materials, and other branded items.
This lack of liability for Noodles & Company is a notable factor for potential franchisees. Franchisees should be prepared for the possibility of rebranding or trademark changes and factor in the potential costs associated with such changes. It is a fairly common practice in franchising that the franchisee bears the costs of implementing changes to trademarks or other branding elements, as the franchisor needs to maintain brand consistency across all locations.