Does the All County Acknowledgment Addendum require the franchisee to acknowledge that the success of their All County business depends on their skills?
All_County Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
As you know, you and we are entering into a Franchise Agreement for the operation of an ALL COUNTY® franchise. The purpose of this Acknowledgment Addendum is to determine whether any statements or promises were made to you that we have not authorized or that may be untrue, inaccurate or misleading, and to be certain that you understand the limitations on claims that may be made by you by reason of the offer and sale of the franchise and operation of your business. Please review each of the following questions carefully and provide honest responses to each question. All representations requiring prospective franchisees to assent to a release, estoppel or waiver of liability are not intended to nor shall they act as a release, estoppel or waiver of liability incurred under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law.
Source: Item 22 — Contracts (FDD page 43)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
Based on the 2025 All County Franchise Disclosure Document, the Acknowledgment Addendum aims to confirm that prospective franchisees understand the limitations on claims related to the franchise and its operation. The addendum seeks to determine if any unauthorized or misleading statements were made during the franchise sales process.
The document includes questions for prospective franchisees to ensure they have received and understood the Franchise Disclosure Document, discussed the business with advisors, and made their own independent investigation. This process is designed to protect both the franchisee and All County by ensuring transparency and informed decision-making.
However, the provided excerpts do not explicitly state that the franchisee must acknowledge that their success depends on their skills. The Acknowledgment Addendum focuses more on verifying the franchisee's understanding of the franchise agreement and disclosures, and on compliance with franchise laws, rather than on assessing or acknowledging the franchisee's individual capabilities or skills.