What does the term 'including' mean in the Budget franchise agreement?

According to Budget's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the term 'including' within the franchise agreement and the Standards means 'including without limitation' unless the context indicates otherwise. This definition broadens the scope of the term, ensuring that any list or examples provided are not exhaustive.

This clarification is significant for prospective Budget franchisees as it implies that when the term 'including' is used, franchisees should be aware that there may be other items or conditions that are not explicitly listed but still fall under the provision. This could impact various aspects of the franchise agreement, such as obligations, fees, or required services.

For example, if a section of the agreement states that certain fees 'including' technology fees and marketing fees are due, the franchisee should understand that other types of fees might also be applicable, even if they are not specifically named. Franchisees should seek clarification from Budget regarding any uncertainties related to the use of the term 'including' to fully understand their obligations and potential costs. This expansive definition protects Budget from being limited to only the items specifically listed and allows for flexibility in interpreting the agreement.

Therefore, prospective franchisees should carefully review the entire franchise agreement and related documents, paying close attention to the context in which the term 'including' is used. It is advisable to consult with a legal professional to fully understand the implications of this definition and how it may affect their rights and responsibilities under the Budget franchise agreement.