What effect do statements, questionnaires, or acknowledgements signed by a Buff City Soap franchisee have on waiving claims under state franchise law?

According to the 2025 FDD, addenda to the Buff City Soap franchise agreement for use in several states (South Dakota, Maryland, Minnesota, Hawaii, Illinois, North Dakota and Washington) clarify the effect of statements, questionnaires, or acknowledgements signed by a franchisee. Specifically, these documents confirm that no such document signed in connection with starting the franchise can waive claims under applicable state franchise law. This includes claims of fraud in the inducement.

This provision also ensures that franchisees cannot disclaim reliance on statements made by Buff City Soap, its sellers, or anyone acting on the company's behalf. This protection is significant because it prevents Buff City Soap from using these documents to shield itself from liability related to misrepresentations or omissions made during the franchise sales process. The FDD states that this provision supersedes any other conflicting terms in any document executed in connection with the franchise agreement.

For a prospective Buff City Soap franchisee, this means that signing a statement, questionnaire, or acknowledgement will not prevent them from pursuing legal claims related to state franchise law or reliance on the franchisor's statements. This offers a degree of protection against potentially overreaching clauses that might otherwise limit their legal recourse. Franchisees should still carefully review all documents and seek legal counsel to fully understand their rights and obligations, but this provision provides an additional layer of security.