FDD Item 13
Trademarks
FDD Item 13 discloses the principal trademarks the franchisee will use, their registration status with the USPTO, any pending oppositions or litigation involving the trademarks, and any contractual obligations affecting trademark use.
Why It Matters
Item 13 confirms that the franchisor actually owns and has registered the trademarks the franchisee will operate under. Unregistered or pending-registration trademarks expose the franchisee to brand-disruption risk if a competing claim succeeds.
What Item 13 Must Disclose
- Principal trademarks granted to the franchisee
- USPTO registration status and registration numbers
- Pending applications, oppositions, or cancellations
- Any litigation involving the trademarks
- Contractual restrictions on trademark use
What to Look For
- Trademarks that are pending registration rather than fully registered — registration is the protection
- Recent oppositions or cancellation proceedings — signals brand-protection risk
- Materially limited trademark rights (e.g., registered in only some states)
Go Deeper
FDD Item 13 Explained: Are You Buying a Real Brand or a Lookalike?
Item 13 discloses the trademarks the franchisor licenses to franchisees. The unregistered marks, pending applications, and active disputes hidden in this section determine whether you're buying a brand with real legal protection or one that another company can challenge tomorrow.