In Washington, where will the arbitration or mediation site be located for a Basecamp Fitness franchise?
Basecamp_Fitness Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
WASHINGTON ADDENDUM TO THE DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT AND RELATED AGREEMENTS
The provisions of this Addendum form an integral part of, are incorporated into, and modify the Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchise agreement, and all related agreements regardless of anything to the contrary contained therein. This Addendum applies if: (a) the offer to sell a franchise is accepted in Washington; (b) the purchaser of the franchise is a resident of Washington; and/or (c) the franchised business that is the subject of the sale is to be located or operated, wholly or partly, in Washington.
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- Conflict of Laws. In the event of a conflict of laws, the provisions of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, chapter 19.100 RCW will prevail.
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- Franchisee Bill of Rights. RCW 19.100.180 may supersede provisions in the franchise agreement or related agreements concerning your relationship with the franchisor, including in the areas of termination and renewal of your franchise.
There may also be court decisions that supersede the franchise agreement or related agreements concerning your relationship with the franchisor.
Franchise agreement provisions, including those summarized in Item 17 of the Franchise Disclosure Document, are subject to state law.
Source: Item 17 — RENEWAL, TERMINATION, TRANSFER, AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION (FDD pages 51–55)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Basecamp Fitness's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the location for arbitration or mediation for a Washington franchisee is not explicitly stated. However, the standard Franchise Agreement requires binding arbitration at the American Arbitration Association office nearest to Basecamp Fitness Franchisor LLC's principal offices, which are currently in Woodbury, Minnesota.
However, the Washington Addendum to the Development Agreement states that the provisions of the addendum form an integral part of, are incorporated into, and modify the Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchise agreement, and all related agreements. It also states that in the event of a conflict of laws, the provisions of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, chapter 19.100 RCW will prevail. Franchise agreement provisions, including those summarized in Item 17 of the Franchise Disclosure Document, are subject to state law.
Therefore, prospective Basecamp Fitness franchisees in Washington should be aware that the enforceability of the standard arbitration clause may be affected by Washington state law. It is advisable to seek legal counsel to understand the implications of these clauses and how they apply to their specific situation. Specifically, they should consult with legal counsel to determine where arbitration or mediation would occur in the state of Washington.