Regarding releases referenced in the Annex Brands Franchise Agreement, what claims are excluded under the Minnesota State Rider?

According to Annex Brands' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Minnesota State Rider to the Franchise Agreement specifies which claims are excluded from certain releases. For franchisees in Minnesota, any releases referenced in Subsections 8.A.3.a, 8.A.3.b, 8.A.3.c.i, 13.C.5, 14.A.4, and 14.C of the Franchise Agreement will not apply to any claims that may arise under the Minnesota Franchises Act, if that law applies to the franchisee or its owners.

This means that if a Minnesota franchisee signs a release related to these specific subsections of the Franchise Agreement, they are still able to pursue claims under the Minnesota Franchises Act. The Minnesota Franchises Act provides certain protections and rights to franchisees in the state, and this rider ensures that those rights cannot be waived through standard release agreements within the franchise contract.

This provision is beneficial for prospective Annex Brands franchisees in Minnesota as it preserves their rights under state law, regardless of any releases they may sign in the Franchise Agreement. Franchisees should consult with an attorney to fully understand their rights and the implications of any releases they are asked to sign.