For Azal Coffee franchise agreements, are electronically transmitted copies of executed counterparts considered original executed counterparts?
Azal_Coffee Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
- l) This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts each of which when so executed shall be an original, but all of which together shall constitute one (1) and the same instrument. This Agreement may be executed on signature pages exchanged by electronic mail (including pdf or any electronic signature complying with the U.S. federal ESIGN Act of 2000, e.g., www.docusign.com) or other transmission method and any counterpart so delivered shall be deemed to have been duly and validly delivered and be valid and effective for all purposes. Copies of executed counterparts transmitted by such electronic transmission service shall be considered original executed counterparts for purposes of this Agreement.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 51)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Azal Coffee's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchise agreements can be executed in counterparts, and electronically transmitted copies of these executed counterparts are considered original executed counterparts. This means that the agreement can be signed in multiple copies, which together form a single agreement.
Specifically, Azal Coffee allows for the use of electronic signatures and transmission methods that comply with the U.S. federal ESIGN Act of 2000. Examples of acceptable methods include PDF documents and services like DocuSign. This provides flexibility and convenience for both the franchisor and franchisee during the signing process.
For a prospective Azal Coffee franchisee, this clause simplifies the execution of the franchise agreement, as it allows for remote signing and reduces the need for physical document exchange. It ensures that electronically transmitted copies hold the same legal weight as original, physically signed documents, streamlining the process of finalizing the franchise agreement.