Regarding publicity, is Zoomin Groomin's written consent required for press releases or public announcements related to the franchise agreement?
Zoomin_Groomin Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Except as required by law, you may not make any press release or other public announcement respecting the subject matter of this Agreement without our written consent as to the form of such press release or public announcement.
Source: Item 9 — 01. Financial Statements and Exhibits. (FDD pages 68–156)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Zoomin Groomin Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are generally restricted from making press releases or public announcements about their franchise agreement without prior written consent from Zoomin Groomin. This requirement ensures that all public communications related to the brand and franchise operations are consistent, accurate, and aligned with the company's overall marketing and public relations strategies.
This provision allows Zoomin Groomin to control its brand image and messaging. By requiring written consent, Zoomin Groomin can review and approve any public statements to ensure they do not contain misleading information, violate any legal or regulatory requirements, or otherwise harm the brand's reputation. This is a common practice in franchising, as franchisors typically want to maintain a consistent brand image across all franchise locations.
For a prospective Zoomin Groomin franchisee, this means that any plans to publicize their franchise, whether through press releases, public announcements, or other means, must first be submitted to Zoomin Groomin for approval. Failure to obtain written consent could result in a breach of the franchise agreement and potential penalties. Franchisees should factor this requirement into their marketing and public relations planning, ensuring they allow sufficient time for Zoomin Groomin to review and approve any materials before they are released to the public.
However, the FDD also notes an exception: if a press release or public announcement is required by law, the franchisee does not need Zoomin Groomin's consent. This exception acknowledges that franchisees may sometimes be legally obligated to disclose certain information, and in such cases, they are not bound by the consent requirement. Franchisees should consult with legal counsel to determine whether any such legal obligations exist.