For a Southern Steer franchise, can the Brand Manual be enhanced by the Franchisor?
Southern_Steer Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
1. Definitions.
(a) "Brand Manual" means, collectively, all books, pamphlets, training videos, discs, software, bulletins, memoranda, letters, notices or other publications or documents prepared by or on behalf of Franchisor, whether in printed or electronic format, for use by Southern Steer Franchisees, setting forth information, advice, standards, requirements, operating procedures, instructions or policies relating to the Brand of the Southern Steer System, as same may be amended, modified or enhanced from
Source: Item 22 — ITEM. 22 CONTRACTS (FDD pages 61–168)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Southern Steer Franchise Disclosure Document, the Brand Manual can be amended, modified, or enhanced by Southern Steer from time to time. The Brand Manual contains information, advice, standards, requirements, operating procedures, instructions, and policies relating to the Southern Steer system.
Southern Steer franchisees must keep their copy of the Brand Manual current and up-to-date. In the event of any dispute regarding the Brand Manual, the terms of the master copy maintained by Southern Steer will be controlling. Franchisees are responsible for implementing any updates and changes set out in the Brand Manual at their own cost within the time period specified by Southern Steer.
Southern Steer may change the components of the System; modify the Food, Beverages and Products; change, improve or modify the Marks; and modify the Brand Manual. Franchisees may be notified of such changes by any method, including but not limited to, e mail, posting the changes to an Intranet, mail, teleconference or facsimile. The Brand Manual is loaned to the Franchisee and will at all times remain the sole and exclusive property of Southern Steer.