Master Franchise Agreement Template for India

The Master Franchise Agreement serves as the foundational document for businesses expanding their franchise operations in India. This agreement is typically used when a franchisor wishes to develop their brand in the Indian market through a master franchisee who will oversee territory development and sub-franchise operations. The document encompasses crucial elements required under Indian law, including detailed provisions for intellectual property protection, quality control, territory rights, and compliance with local regulations. Master Franchise Agreements are particularly important in the Indian context due to the country's diverse regional markets and regulatory requirements, necessitating careful consideration of state-specific laws and business practices. The agreement must balance the franchisor's need to maintain brand consistency with the master franchisee's ability to adapt to local market conditions, while ensuring compliance with Indian commercial laws and regulations.

1. Parties: Identification of the franchisor and master franchisee, including full legal names, registration details, and addresses

2. Background: Context of the agreement, brief description of the business concept, and the franchisor's ownership of the system

3. Definitions: Comprehensive definitions of key terms used throughout the agreement

4. Grant of Rights: Scope of master franchise rights, territorial exclusivity, and sub-franchising rights

5. Term and Renewal: Initial duration of the agreement and conditions for renewal

6. Fees and Payments: Initial fees, ongoing royalties, sub-franchise fees sharing, payment terms and methods

7. Obligations of the Franchisor: Support, training, manuals, and ongoing assistance to be provided by the franchisor

8. Obligations of the Master Franchisee: Development schedule, operational requirements, reporting obligations, and quality maintenance

9. Sub-Franchising Rights and Obligations: Process for appointing sub-franchisees, approval requirements, and ongoing management

10. Intellectual Property Rights: Usage of trademarks, trade secrets, and system know-how

11. Quality Control and Standards: Maintenance of brand standards, inspection rights, and compliance requirements

12. Confidentiality: Protection of confidential information and trade secrets

13. Non-Competition: Restrictions during and after the term of the agreement

14. Reporting and Audit Rights: Financial reporting requirements and franchisor's audit rights

15. Insurance: Required insurance coverage and minimum limits

16. Default and Termination: Events of default, cure periods, and termination rights

17. Post-Termination Obligations: Obligations and restrictions following termination

18. Dispute Resolution: Process for resolving disputes, including jurisdiction and governing law

19. General Provisions: Standard boilerplate clauses including force majeure, notices, and amendments