How might RCW 19.100.180 affect the Aira Fitness franchise agreement regarding termination and renewal?
Aira_Fitness Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
DISCLOSURE DOCUMENT FOR THE STATE OF HAWAII
The Aira Fitness Franchising, LLC Disclosure Document for use in the State of Hawaii is modified in accordance with the following:
- For Hawaii franchisees, the conditions under which the franchise can be terminated and rights upon nonrenewal may be affected by Hawaii Revised Statutes, Section 482E-6.
AIRA FITNESS FRANCHISING LLC ADDENDUM TO FRANCHISE DISCLOSURE DOCUMENT FOR THE STATE OF ILLINOIS
Payment of Initial Franchise/Development Fees will be deferred until Franchisor has met its initial obligations to franchisee, and franchisee has commenced doing business.
Source: Item 17 — **RENEWAL, TERMINATION,TRANSFER AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION THE FRANCHISE RELATIONSHIP (FDD pages 48–54)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
Based on the 2025 Aira Fitness Franchise Disclosure Document, there is no specific addendum addressing the impact of Washington's Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 19.100.180 on the franchise agreement concerning termination and renewal. However, the FDD includes addenda for several other states that address how state laws may supersede the standard franchise agreement. For example, the addendum for Hawaii notes that, for Hawaii franchisees, the conditions under which the franchise can be terminated and rights upon nonrenewal may be affected by Hawaii Revised Statutes, Section 482E-6. Similarly, the addendum for Virginia states that it is unlawful for a franchisor to cancel a franchise without reasonable cause, according to Section 13.1-564 of the Virginia Retail Franchising Act.
Given the absence of a specific reference to RCW 19.100.180, prospective Aira Fitness franchisees in Washington should be aware that the standard franchise agreement might not fully reflect their rights under Washington law. RCW 19.100.180, part of the Franchise Investment Protection Act in Washington, addresses termination, cancellation, and non-renewal of franchises, setting specific requirements for "good cause" and notice periods that franchisors must adhere to.
Therefore, it is essential for potential Aira Fitness franchisees in Washington to consult with a legal professional familiar with Washington franchise law to understand how RCW 19.100.180 specifically affects their franchise agreement. They should inquire with Aira Fitness about whether the franchise agreement is modified or interpreted in any way to account for the stipulations of RCW 19.100.180, ensuring full compliance and protection of franchisee rights under Washington law. This due diligence will help ensure that the franchisee is fully aware of their rights and obligations regarding termination and renewal.