Does the Minnesota Addendum to the Bonchon Franchise Agreement allow for release language that relieves Bonchon from liability imposed by Minnesota franchising laws?

According to the 2025 Bonchon Franchise Disclosure Document, the Minnesota Addendum to the Franchise Agreement explicitly prohibits any release language that would relieve Bonchon from liability under Minnesota franchising laws. This means that any clause in the standard franchise agreement that might be interpreted as a release of liability is superseded by the addendum in Minnesota. This protection extends not only to Bonchon itself but also to any other person or entity acting directly or indirectly on its behalf.

This provision ensures that Minnesota franchisees retain all rights and remedies available to them under Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 80C, which governs franchising in the state. It prevents Bonchon from using the franchise agreement to circumvent these protections. The addendum also reinforces this by stating that nothing in the disclosure document or agreement can reduce any of the franchisee's rights as provided by Minnesota law.

For a prospective Bonchon franchisee in Minnesota, this is a significant benefit. It provides assurance that their legal rights under Minnesota franchise law cannot be waived or diminished through the franchise agreement. This protection is particularly important in areas such as termination rights, non-renewal rights, and dispute resolution, where franchisors might otherwise seek to limit their liability. This addendum creates a more balanced relationship between Bonchon and its Minnesota franchisees, safeguarding the franchisee's ability to pursue legal recourse if necessary.