Is Afuri Ramen Dumpling liable to the franchisee for the franchisee's own acts or omissions?

According to the 2024 Afuri Ramen Dumpling Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisee is responsible for indemnifying Afuri Franchise, Inc. and its affiliates against losses, costs, and liabilities arising from the franchisee's actions. This means that Afuri Ramen Dumpling is not liable for the franchisee's acts or omissions; rather, the franchisee is responsible for covering costs incurred by Afuri Ramen Dumpling due to the franchisee's actions.

Specifically, the franchisee must indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Afuri Ramen Dumpling against all losses, costs, proceedings, judgments, liabilities, expenses, court costs, and reasonable attorney fees. This obligation extends to issues arising from any breach of representations and warranties, the operation of any pre-existing business of the franchisee, or any willful or negligent act or omission by the franchisee, its owners, directors, officers, employees, or agents.

This indemnification covers any act or omission that contributes to economic damage, bodily injury, sickness, disease, or death. It's important to note that this responsibility survives the termination of the Franchise Agreement, meaning the franchisee's liability continues even after the agreement ends. This indemnification is in addition to any other indemnification provisions in the Franchise Agreement, further emphasizing the franchisee's responsibility for their own actions.