Where will arbitration or mediation take place for a Beef O Bradys franchise purchased in Washington?
Beef_O_Bradys Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Site of Arbitration, Mediation, and/or Litigation. In any arbitration or mediation involving a franchise purchased in Washington, the arbitration or mediation site will be either in the state of Washington, or in a place mutually agreed upon at the time of the arbitration or mediation, or as determined by the arbitrator or mediator at the time of arbitration or mediation. In addition, if litigation is not precluded by the Franchise Agreement, a franchisee may bring an action or proceeding arising out of or in connection with the sale of franchises, or a violation of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, in Washington.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS. (FDD pages 66–330)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Beef O Bradys' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, for any franchise purchased in Washington, the arbitration or mediation site will be in the state of Washington. However, there are a couple of exceptions. The location can be a place mutually agreed upon at the time of the arbitration or mediation. Also, the arbitrator or mediator can determine the location at the time of arbitration or mediation.
Additionally, if the Franchise Agreement does not preclude litigation, a franchisee can bring an action or proceeding arising out of or related to the sale of franchises, or a violation of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, in Washington.
This addendum ensures that Beef O Bradys franchisees in Washington have the option to resolve disputes within their own state, which can reduce travel costs and logistical challenges. It also provides an avenue for legal action in Washington if litigation is not restricted by the franchise agreement, particularly for issues related to franchise sales or violations of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act.