What document must each Owner of an Aplus franchise execute, as per the franchise agreement?

According to the 2024 Aplus Franchise Disclosure Document, each Owner of an Aplus franchise must execute a general release. This release is in a form prescribed by Aplus and covers any and all claims against Aplus, its affiliates, and their respective officers, directors, shareholders, managers, members, partners, owners, employees, and agents in both their corporate and individual capacities. However, this release is not required to the extent that it is prohibited by the laws of the state where the franchised business is located.

In practical terms, this means that as a condition of owning an Aplus franchise, you and each of your co-owners must waive your rights to sue Aplus or its related parties, except where state law prevents such a waiver. This is a significant legal commitment that should be carefully considered with the advice of an attorney. The scope of the claims being released is broad, covering a wide range of potential disputes.

This requirement is fairly common in franchising, as franchisors seek to protect themselves from potential litigation by franchisees. However, the specific terms and limitations of the release can vary, so it's important to understand exactly what rights you are giving up. Prospective franchisees should pay close attention to the specific language of the release and understand its implications before signing the franchise agreement.