Who owns the Mark(s) licensed to Southern Steer franchisees?
Southern_Steer Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
The Mark(s) is owned by Our Affiliate, Southern Steer Butcher, LLC. We entered into an Intellectual Property License Agreement with Southern Steer Butcher, LLC licensing the use of the Mark(s) and System to Us ("License Agreement"). Under the License Agreement, Southern Steer Butcher, LLC granted Us the non-exclusive right to use and license the Mark(s) for the purpose of franchising Southern Steer Businesses. The term of the License Agreement is 30 years with automatic one-year renewal periods, and the License Agreement cannot be modified or terminated except by the mutual agreement of the parties.
Source: Item 13 — ITEM. 13 TRADEMARKS (FDD pages 38–39)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Southern Steer's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Mark(s) are owned by Southern Steer Butcher, LLC, which is an affiliate of the franchisor. Southern Steer has an Intellectual Property License Agreement with Southern Steer Butcher, LLC, granting Southern Steer the non-exclusive right to use and license the Mark(s) for franchising Southern Steer Businesses. The License Agreement has a term of 30 years with automatic one-year renewal periods and can only be modified or terminated by mutual agreement of both parties.
This arrangement means that while Southern Steer franchisees are granted the right to use the Mark(s) in their business, the actual ownership resides with Southern Steer Butcher, LLC. Southern Steer's rights to license these marks are governed by the Intellectual Property License Agreement. This agreement ensures Southern Steer can grant franchisees the right to use the Mark(s) for the operation of their Southern Steer Business.
Prospective franchisees should be aware of the terms of this License Agreement, particularly the duration and renewal conditions, as it secures Southern Steer's ability to allow franchisees to use the Mark(s). Additionally, franchisees must adhere to the guidelines for trademark use outlined in the Franchise Agreement and Brand Manual. Franchisees must notify Southern Steer immediately if they learn of any infringement or challenges to the use of the Mark(s). While Southern Steer is not contractually obligated to protect franchisees against claims of infringement, it is their policy to do so when their counsel believes protection is required, and they will cover associated costs for litigation they choose to pursue or defend.