For a Buns On Fire franchise purchased in Washington, where will arbitration or mediation take place?
Buns_On_Fire Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
In any arbitration involving a franchise purchased in Washington, the arbitration site shall be either in the state of Washington, or in a place mutually agreed upon at the time of the arbitration, or as determined by the arbitrator.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 49–200)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Buns On Fire Franchise Disclosure Document, if a franchisee purchases a Buns On Fire franchise in Washington, the arbitration site must be in Washington. However, there are two exceptions to this rule.
First, the arbitration site can be in a location mutually agreed upon by both parties (Buns On Fire and the franchisee) at the time of the arbitration. Second, the arbitration site can be determined by the arbitrator.
It is important to note that Washington state law (RCW 19.100.180) may supersede the franchise agreement in the relationship between the franchisee and Buns On Fire, especially concerning termination and renewal. Additionally, court decisions could also supersede the franchise agreement in these areas. In case of conflicting laws, the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act (Chapter 19.100 RCW) will take precedence. A franchisee cannot waive their rights under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act unless it is part of a negotiated settlement with independent legal representation after the agreement is already in effect.