What does Southern Steer consider to be Confidential Information?

According to Southern Steer's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Confidential Information encompasses a wide array of proprietary materials and knowledge essential to the operation of a Southern Steer Business. This includes the Brand Manual, electronic communications, sales and promotional materials, and the specifics of Southern Steer's System. The System includes standards, specifications, policies, procedures, information, concepts and systems on, knowledge of and experience in the development, operation and franchising of Southern Steer Business. It also extends to recipes, formulations for and packaging of products, and training, safety, and preparation techniques used to provide products sold at Southern Steer Businesses. Furthermore, information concerning Southern Steer's products, operating results, financial performance and other financial data are also considered confidential. These materials are considered Southern Steer's property and are intended for use by franchisees only as outlined in the Franchise Agreement or the Brand Manual. Some of this information, including recipes, may also be classified as trade secrets.

Southern Steer retains the right to use or transfer this Confidential Information and Trade Secrets both during and after the franchise agreement's term, regardless of termination, expiration, repurchase, or transfer. Franchisees are obligated to maintain the confidentiality of this information and must implement reasonable measures to prevent unauthorized disclosure. Franchisees are prohibited from using, publishing, disclosing, or communicating the Confidential Information and Trade Secrets in any manner outside the scope of their Southern Steer Business, and even within the business, use is restricted to what is permitted by Southern Steer.

Southern Steer requires franchisees, their designated managers, operating principals, officers, owners, directors, key employees, other beneficial owners, and immediate family members who become aware of Confidential Information and Trade Secrets to sign a Non-Competition and Non-Disclosure Agreement. This agreement, attached to the Franchise Agreement, underscores the importance Southern Steer places on protecting its proprietary information. Any unauthorized use of copyrighted materials, Confidential Information, or Trade Secrets by a franchisee constitutes an infringement of Southern Steer's rights.