Does All County require me to acknowledge that no revenue promises were made?
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)
According to All County's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to sign an Acknowledgment Addendum. This addendum aims to confirm whether any unauthorized or inaccurate statements or promises were made during the franchise sales process. The document ensures that prospective franchisees understand the limitations on claims related to the franchise's offer, sale, and operation. However, this acknowledgment does not act as a release, estoppel, or waiver of liability incurred under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law. This acknowledgment is not required if you are a resident of Maryland or the business is to be operated in Maryland.
This requirement is a standard practice in franchising, intended to protect both the franchisor and franchisee by ensuring transparency and preventing misunderstandings regarding potential earnings or business performance. By signing this addendum, the franchisee confirms that they have not relied on any promises or representations not explicitly stated in the Franchise Agreement or the Franchise Disclosure Document. This helps to avoid future disputes based on alleged verbal promises or unrealistic expectations.
For a prospective All County franchisee, this means carefully reviewing the Acknowledgment Addendum and answering all questions honestly. It is crucial to understand that any claims or expectations regarding revenue or performance should be based solely on the information provided in the FDD and the Franchise Agreement. If there are any discrepancies or unauthorized promises made during the sales process, it is important to address them with All County before signing the agreement. Franchisees in Virginia and New York cannot waive claims under any applicable state franchise law, including fraud in the inducement, or disclaiming reliance on any statement made by All County.