What does Minnesota consider unfair regarding Zoomin Groomin's protection of trademark use?
Zoomin_Groomin Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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.
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).
Source: Item 17 — g. of the Disclosure Document is modified to state that, in addition to the grounds for immediate termination specified in Item 17.h., the franchisor can terminate upon written notice and a 60 day opportunity to cure for a breach of the Franchise Agreement. (FDD pages 51–65)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Zoomin Groomin's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Minnesota considers it unfair for Zoomin Groomin to not protect a franchisee's right to use the trademarks, service marks, trade names, logotypes, or other commercial symbols. This protection extends to indemnifying the franchisee from any losses, costs, or expenses arising from claims, suits, or demands related to the use of the Zoomin Groomin name. This stipulation is detailed under Minnesota Statutes, Section 80C.12, Subd. 1(g).
For a prospective Zoomin Groomin franchisee in Minnesota, this means that Zoomin Groomin is expected to actively defend the franchisee's right to use the brand's trademarks and other commercial symbols. Should any legal issues arise from the use of these trademarks, Zoomin Groomin is obligated to cover any resulting losses, costs, or expenses incurred by the franchisee. This provision aims to protect franchisees from potential legal challenges related to trademark infringement or similar claims.
This requirement provides a significant benefit to Zoomin Groomin franchisees in Minnesota, as it reduces their risk and potential financial burden associated with trademark-related legal issues. It ensures that Zoomin Groomin takes responsibility for protecting its brand and supports its franchisees in their use of the brand's identity. This is especially important for new franchisees who may not have the resources or expertise to handle such legal matters on their own. Franchisees should ensure they understand the scope of this protection and how to invoke it if necessary.