What protection does Stretch Zone provide to franchisees in Minnesota regarding trademark use?
Stretch_Zone Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- ITEM 13 is amended by the addition of the following language to the original language:
Minnesota considers it unfair to not protect the Franchisee's right to use the trademarks. Refer to Minnesota Statues, Section 80C.12, Subd. 1(g). The Franchisor will protect the Franchisee's rights to use the trademarks, service marks, trade names, logotypes or other commercial symbols or indemnify the Franchisee from any loss, costs or expenses arising out of any claim, suit or demand regarding the use of the name.
Source: Item 7 — ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT (FDD pages 91–99)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Stretch Zone Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees in Minnesota receive specific protections regarding the use of Stretch Zone's trademarks. The FDD states that Minnesota law considers it unfair for a franchisor not to protect a franchisee's right to use trademarks.
Specifically, Stretch Zone commits to protecting the franchisee's rights to use its trademarks, service marks, trade names, logotypes, or other commercial symbols. Furthermore, Stretch Zone agrees to indemnify the franchisee from any losses, costs, or expenses that may arise from claims, suits, or demands related to the use of the Stretch Zone name.
This means that if a Stretch Zone franchisee in Minnesota faces legal challenges or incurs costs due to their authorized use of Stretch Zone's trademarks, Stretch Zone will cover those expenses. This protection helps to mitigate a significant risk for franchisees, as trademark disputes can be costly and disruptive.