Franchisors who operate and sell franchises in Indiana should take note that, effective July 1, the Indiana Franchise Law was amended to require franchisors to file amendments to registrations if there is a material change to their franchise system. The amended law also permits franchisors to designate an expiration date earlier than one year from … Continue Reading
Introduction Hidden between some of the most prominent powerhouses in Asia—China, Thailand, and Vietnam—Laos has often been overlooked by foreign investors seeking to capitalize on investment opportunities in the region. However, thanks to an increased commitment from the government to ease restrictions on foreign direct investment (FDI) and efforts to create a more well-rounded economy … Continue Reading
Introduction The franchise market in Kazakhstan started to develop in the mid-1990s. The Kazakhstan Franchising Agency (KFA) estimates that the number of foreign brands currently franchising in Kazakhstan is close to 500 (and will grow to 550 by 2020), with an estimated 3,000 franchised outlets employing over 30,000 people and estimated annual sales of US … Continue Reading
Introduction New Zealand is an exciting and fast developing market for franchising. The population of New Zealand is about 4.6 million and there are over 630 franchise systems—one for every 7,400 people—which is very high in comparison with other countries. Why? As a whole, New Zealanders love brands and businesses that succeed, and franchising offers … Continue Reading
Introduction The Kingdom of Spain is a democratic parliamentary monarchy, a member of the European Union and a signatory to the Schengen Area Agreement. Spain is also part of most international organizations and a signatory to most international treaties and conventions. Spanish territory is administratively divided in 17 autonomous communities (regions) including two autonomous cities … Continue Reading
Quarles & Brady’s Labor & Employment Practice recently presented a webinar on, “Developments at the National Labor Relations Board and Their Impact on Employers and Franchisors.” Judi Williams-Killackey, Chris Nickels and Steve Kruzel reviewed the recent General Counsel memo and recent decisions from the NLRB, including those relating to its joint employer standard, workplace policies … Continue Reading
SB 750, the deceptively titled “Protect Florida Small Business Act,” appears to have met its demise. Although it passed the Senate Committee on Regulated Industries by a vote of 7–2, the bill will be not be scheduled for a hearing by the Senate Judiciary Committee. This marks the end of SB 750’s journey in the … Continue Reading
A bill introduced this month in the Florida Legislature threatens to fundamentally shift the balance of franchise relationships in the Sunshine State. SB 750, deceptively titled “Protect Florida Small Business Act,” represents the most expansive, invasive and burdensome franchise relationship law ever proposed in the United States, if not the world. Although it contains numerous … Continue Reading
McDonald’s Corp. recently agreed to pay $3.75 million to settle a lawsuit filed by workers of one of its franchisees. Stop the presses! Isn’t that the opposite of what McDonald’s should be doing? Isn’t McDonald’s a leading player in fighting the idea that it is a joint employer of franchisee’s workers? Let’s back up a … Continue Reading
In today’s global economy, it is increasingly important for companies to strategically develop and maintain an international trademark portfolio. Effective trademark portfolio management is a key factor in maintaining the rights and value of an company’s intellectual property. An effective portfolio management strategy includes determining which marks are critical to the company’s business goals, and … Continue Reading
When a trademark or service mark owner grants the right to use its mark to a third party, a license arrangement is typically created. The essential part of that arrangement is that the mark owner exercise quality control over the licensee’s use of the mark, so that the public can reasonably expect some consistent level … Continue Reading
Renewal season is upon us. Franchisors with fiscal years coinciding with the calendar year are now in the throws of updating their Franchise Disclosure Document. Given strict deadlines and the inherent difficulty in collecting the required information, having a plan for the updating process is critical. Here are five tips that can help your FDD updating … Continue Reading
