For the Bonchon franchise agreement, are signatures via DocuSign, .PDF file, facsimile, or other electronic format considered to have the same force and effect as original signatures?
Bonchon Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
constitute one and the same instrument. Signatures via DocuSign, .PDF file, facsimile, or other electronic format have the same force and effect as originals.
[Signature page follows.]
| | expenditures | |---|---| | on television, radio, newspaper, magazines, out of home, posters, banners, brochure, direct mail, | | | social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, yelp, and other digital platforms. | | [Signature Page – California Addendum to Bonchon Franchise Agreement]
HAWAII ADDENDUM TO FRANCHISE AGREEMENT
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 92–536)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bonchon's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, addenda for Hawaii and Illinois specify that signatures via DocuSign, .PDF file, facsimile, or other electronic format have the same legal validity as original signatures. This applies specifically to the Hawaii Addendum to Franchise Agreement, the Hawaii Addendum to Area Development Agreement, and the Illinois Addendum to Franchise Agreement. This means that for these agreements, Bonchon accepts electronic signatures as equivalent to handwritten ones.
This acceptance of electronic signatures can streamline the franchise agreement process for prospective Bonchon franchisees in Hawaii and Illinois. It allows for quicker execution of documents, as franchisees can sign and return agreements electronically without needing to print, sign, and mail physical copies. This can be particularly beneficial for franchisees who are not located near Bonchon's headquarters or who prefer to conduct business remotely.
It is important to note that this specific clause is mentioned only in the context of the Hawaii and Illinois addenda. While Bonchon provides a receipt that can be returned via electronic signature, the general franchise agreement's policy on electronic signatures isn't explicitly stated. Franchisees in states other than Hawaii and Illinois should confirm with Bonchon whether electronic signatures are acceptable for the main franchise agreement and any other related documents to ensure compliance and avoid potential issues.
Prospective franchisees should also verify if there are any specific requirements or platforms Bonchon mandates for electronic signatures to be considered valid. Understanding these details upfront can prevent delays or complications during the agreement signing process. Franchisees should also retain copies of all signed documents, whether electronic or physical, for their records.