What laws are Bonchon franchisees prohibited from contravening regarding hiring, retaining, employing, or engaging services?
Bonchon Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You employ any individual who is not eligible for employment in the United States under any federal, state, local or other law, rule or regulation.
You do not comply, for a period of 15 days after notification of non-compliance by us or any governmental or quasi-governmental authority, with any federal, state or local law or regulation applicable to the operation of the franchised Business.
RCW 49.62.060 prohibits a franchisor from restricting, restraining, or prohibiting a franchisee from (i) soliciting or hiring any employee of a franchisee of the same franchisor or (ii) soliciting or hiring any employee of the franchisor.
As a result, any such provisions contained in the franchise agreement or elsewhere are void and unenforceable in Washington.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 92–536)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bonchon's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must adhere to specific legal and regulatory standards in their employment practices. Bonchon franchisees are prohibited from employing individuals who are not legally eligible for employment in the United States, as dictated by federal, state, local, or other applicable laws and regulations. This means franchisees must verify the eligibility of all potential hires to work in the U.S.
Additionally, Bonchon franchisees must comply with all federal, state, and local laws and regulations applicable to the operation of their franchised business. Failure to comply within 15 days after notification of non-compliance by Bonchon or any governmental authority can result in penalties. This requirement extends to all aspects of the business, including employment practices, ensuring that franchisees operate within the bounds of the law in all areas.
In Washington state, RCW 49.62.060 specifically prohibits Bonchon from restricting franchisees from soliciting or hiring any employee of another Bonchon franchisee or any employee of Bonchon itself. Any conflicting provisions in the franchise agreement are considered void and unenforceable in Washington. This ensures franchisees in Washington have the freedom to recruit employees from within the Bonchon system, promoting a competitive labor environment.