How many arbitrators are used in binding arbitration for Bee Organized disputes?
Bee_Organized Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- (2) Arbitration Subject to the prerequisite requirements of non-binding mediation as set forth in Sub-Article 18.G.(1), and, except at Franchisor's election, as to any claims or disputes related to or concerning a breach of this Agreement by Franchisee that, under the terms of this Agreement, may entitle Franchisor to the award of injunctive relief including, but not limited to, Franchisee's violation or purported violation of Article 6 of this Agreement, Franchisor and Franchisee agree that all disputes, controversies, and claims, arising from and/or related to this Agreement, the relationship between Franchisor and Franchisee, the System, and/or the validity of this Agreement and/or the Ancillary Agreements, shall be submitted, on demand of either Franchisor or Franchisee, to AAA for binding arbitration. Arbitration shall be conducted by one arbitrator in accordance with AAA's then current rules for commercial disputes, except as may be otherwise required in this Article 18.G. All arbitration proceedings shall be conducted in Johnson County, Kansas, or, if suitable AAA facilities are not available in Johnson County, Kansas, then at a suitable AAA location selected by the arbitrator that is located closest to Johnson County, Kansas. In connection with binding arbitration, Franchisor and Franchisee further agree that:
- (a) All matters relating to arbitration, will be governed by the United States Federal Arbitration Act, except as expressly or otherwise set forth in this Agreement;
- (b) The arbitration hearing shall be conducted within 180 days of the demand for arbitration;
- (c) The arbitrator shall render written findings of fact and conclusions of law;
- (d) Except as may be otherwise required and/or prohibited by this Agreement including, but not limited to Articles 18.I., 18.J., 18.N., 18.O., 18.R., 18.T., and 18.X. of this Agreement, the arbitrator has the right to award or include in his or her award any relief that he or she determines to be proper, including monetary damages, interest on unpaid sums, specific performance, injunctive relief,
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 54–218)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bee Organized's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, disputes that proceed to binding arbitration will be conducted by a single arbitrator. This is after the parties have attempted non-binding mediation. Either Bee Organized or the franchisee can demand arbitration through the American Arbitration Association (AAA).
The arbitrator will follow AAA's rules for commercial disputes, unless the franchise agreement specifies otherwise. The arbitration hearings will take place in Johnson County, Kansas, or at an AAA location closest to Johnson County if suitable facilities are unavailable there.
The arbitrator is required to provide written findings of fact and conclusions of law. The arbitrator has broad authority to award relief, including monetary damages, interest, specific performance, and injunctive relief, except as limited by other parts of the franchise agreement.