What restrictions are placed on Buns On Fire regarding soliciting or hiring employees of franchisees or the franchisor in Washington?

According to the 2025 Buns On Fire Franchise Disclosure Document, Washington state law impacts the brand's ability to restrict franchisees from soliciting or hiring employees. Specifically, RCW 49.62.060 prohibits Buns On Fire from restricting a franchisee from soliciting or hiring any employee of another Buns On Fire franchisee or any employee of Buns On Fire itself. This means that any clause in the franchise agreement that attempts to prevent a franchisee in Washington from hiring employees from these sources is legally void and unenforceable. This addendum ensures that the franchise agreement complies with Washington state law, protecting the rights of franchisees to recruit and hire employees without undue restrictions from Buns On Fire.

For a prospective Buns On Fire franchisee in Washington, this is a significant benefit. It means they have the freedom to recruit qualified employees from within the Buns On Fire system, potentially gaining experienced staff who are already familiar with the brand and its operations. This can be a valuable resource for staffing their franchise and improving its performance. It also prevents Buns On Fire from enforcing non-compete agreements that might otherwise limit a franchisee's ability to hire employees from other parts of the Buns On Fire network.

This type of provision is not uncommon in franchise agreements, as many states have laws in place to protect franchisees from overly restrictive covenants. Franchisees should always carefully review the FDD and franchise agreement to understand their rights and obligations under state law. It is also advisable to consult with an attorney to ensure they fully understand the legal implications of the franchise agreement.