In Michigan, what franchisee association rights are Bang Cookies franchisees protected from having prohibited?
Bang_Cookies Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
Amendments to the Bang Cookies Franchise Disclosure Document
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- THE STATE OF MICHIGAN PROHIBITS CERTAIN UNFAIR PROVISIONS THAT ARE SOMETIMES IN FRANCHISE DOCUMENTS. IF ANY OF THE FOLLOWING PROVISIONS ARE IN THESE FRANCHISE DOCUMENTS, THE PROVISIONS ARE VOID AND CANNOT BE ENFORCED AGAINST YOU.
- A. A prohibition of your right to join an association of Franchisees.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 56–245)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Bang Cookies's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, Michigan franchisees have specific protections regarding their right to join a franchisee association. The FDD explicitly states that any provision within the franchise documents that prohibits a franchisee's right to join an association of franchisees is void and unenforceable in Michigan.
This protection ensures that Bang Cookies franchisees in Michigan can freely associate with one another to discuss common issues, negotiate with the franchisor, or pursue other collective goals without fear of reprisal or legal restrictions from Bang Cookies. This is a significant right, as franchisee associations can provide a platform for franchisees to voice their concerns and work together to improve their business conditions.
This provision is included as an amendment to the standard franchise agreement to comply with Michigan state law, which aims to prevent franchisors from unduly restricting franchisees' rights. Prospective Bang Cookies franchisees in Michigan should be aware of this protection and understand that they have the right to join or form an association with other franchisees, regardless of any conflicting language that may appear in the standard franchise agreement.