Do other countries have laws like the FTC Franchise Rule?

Many countries (e.g., Australia, Canada, Brazil, parts of Europe) have specific franchise disclosure and relationship laws that differ significantly from US law. Local compliance is mandatory.

How do I protect my trademark internationally?

Trademark rights are territorial. You must register your trademark in each country where you plan to operate, often utilizing international treaties like the Madrid Protocol.

Can a foreign franchisor sell franchises in the US?

Yes, but they must fully comply with the FTC Franchise Rule and applicable state registration laws, which usually requires creating a US-specific FDD and establishing a US corporate entity.

International Franchising

International Franchising Legal Support for Cross-Border Growth

Expanding a franchise internationally requires master franchise agreements, international trademark protection, and localized disclosure documents. We help US franchisors expand abroad and foreign brands enter the US market.

Discuss International Expansion Explore Franchise Services

30+ Years

Business Law
Experience

Nationwide

Strategic
Counsel

Multi-State

Regulatory
Compliance

Founder

Focused
Strategy

What’s At Stake

Cross-border expansion introduces complex legal, cultural, and operational challenges. Without specialized counsel, brands risk:

Loss of intellectual property in foreign jurisdictions

Non-compliance with local franchise disclosure laws

Unenforceable master franchise agreements

Tax and corporate structuring inefficiencies

Supply chain and operational breakdowns

Our Process

1. Market Assessment

Evaluate the legal landscape of the target country.

2. IP Protection

Secure trademarks in the new jurisdiction before entry.

3. Structuring

Determine the best model (Master Franchise, Direct, Joint Venture).

4. Documentation

Draft cross-border agreements and localized disclosure documents.

5. Execution

Coordinate with local counsel to ensure full compliance.

What We Help With

Legal strategy for global franchise growth and market entry.

Master Franchise Agreements

Structure agreements granting rights to develop and sub-franchise in foreign territories.

Area Development Agreements

Draft contracts for multi-unit development across international borders.

Inbound US Expansion

Help foreign franchisors adapt their system to comply with FTC and state laws.

International Trademark Protection

Coordinate Madrid Protocol filings and local trademark registrations.

Localized Disclosure Documents

Work with local counsel to draft disclosure documents required by foreign laws.

Cross-Border Dispute Resolution

Structure arbitration clauses to ensure agreements are enforceable internationally.

Frequently Asked Questions

A Master Franchise Agreement grants a party (the Master Franchisee) the right to open units and sell sub-franchises within a specific country or large territory, acting effectively as the franchisor in that region.