Does Noodles & Company have any liability if a Mark is modified or discontinued?
Noodles_Company Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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 must comply with our directions within a reasonable time after notice. You must bear all costs and expenses applicable to your Noodles & Company restaurant should we decide to modify the Marks or adopt new marks. We will have no liability or obligation regarding any required modification or discontinuance of any Mark or the promotion of a substitute trademark, service mark or trade dress.
Source: Item 13 — TRADEMARKS (FDD pages 53–58)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Noodles & Company Franchise Disclosure Document, Noodles & Company bears no liability or obligation if a Mark is modified or discontinued. If Noodles & Company decides that it is advisable to modify or discontinue a Mark, franchisees must comply with Noodles & Company's directions within a reasonable time after receiving notice.
Furthermore, the franchisee is responsible for all costs and expenses related to their Noodles & Company restaurant if Noodles & Company decides to modify existing Marks or adopt new ones. This means that if Noodles & Company decides to change its logo, name, or other brand identifiers, the franchisee will have to pay for things like new signage, marketing materials, and other items to reflect the changes.
This is a potentially significant financial burden for franchisees, as rebranding can be expensive. While it is not uncommon for franchisors to modify trademarks and require franchisees to implement those changes, the FDD makes it clear that Noodles & Company franchisees will bear the costs of these changes. Prospective franchisees should consider this potential expense when evaluating the Noodles & Company franchise opportunity.