Does the Zoomin Groomin franchise agreement require adherence to non-compete and non-solicitation duties after termination?
Zoomin_Groomin Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
ly or indirectly, owning, operating, or having any interest in any competitive business and you will not directly or indirectly assist anyone in competition with us (collectively, the "Restricted Activities") within the United States or its territories. For avoidance of doubt, a competitive business is one that offers mobile pet grooming or related pet products and services.
B. Unfair Competition After the Term
You will not unfairly compete with us for a period of two (2) years after expiration or termination of this Agreement in the Territory or within twenty-five (25) miles of the boundaries of the Territory or 25 miles of any other Zoomin Groomin outlet by engaging in any Restricted Activities. This restriction applies even if you sell your Franchise Business.
C.
Source: Item 9 — 01. Financial Statements and Exhibits. (FDD pages 68–156)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Zoomin Groomin's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchise agreement includes both non-compete and non-solicitation clauses that apply after the agreement expires or is terminated.
The non-compete clause restricts franchisees from engaging in any "Restricted Activities" for two years after the agreement ends. Restricted Activities include owning, operating, or having any interest in a competitive business that offers mobile pet grooming or related pet products and services. This restriction applies within the franchisee's former territory or within 25 miles of its boundaries, as well as within 25 miles of any other Zoomin Groomin outlet. This applies even if the franchisee sells their franchise business.
The non-solicitation clause also lasts for two years after the agreement ends. It prohibits franchisees from directly or indirectly soliciting the patronage of any customer served by their former franchise during the last 24 months of operation. This restriction applies within the franchisee's former territory or within 25 miles of its boundaries. Franchisees are restricted from disparaging Zoomin Groomin during the restricted period, which means they should avoid intentional conduct that harms the Franchise Business's relationships with clients or vendors.
These post-termination obligations are common in franchise agreements to protect the brand's market share and customer relationships. Prospective Zoomin Groomin franchisees should carefully consider the implications of these restrictions, especially if they plan to remain in the pet grooming industry after leaving the franchise system. They should also be aware of the geographic scope of these restrictions and how they might impact future business opportunities.