In the Burger King franchise agreement addendum, what is the intended effect of the parties' electronic signatures?
Burger_King Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
By entering into this Addendum, Franchisee expressly consents to transact business with BKC electronically and that, consistent with the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act, and all other applicable state and federal laws, this Addendum may be executed by electronic signatures. The parties to this Addendum agree that the parties' electronic signatures are intended to authenticate this writing and to have the same force and effect as the use of manual signatures and an electronically signed version of this Addendum shall constitute an original for all purposes.
Source: Item 20 — OUTLETS AND FRANCHISEE INFORMATION (FDD pages 109–124)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Burger King's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the addendum to the franchise agreement addresses the use of electronic signatures. By agreeing to the addendum, both Burger King and the franchisee consent to conduct business electronically. This consent is explicitly made in accordance with the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act and other relevant state and federal laws.
The core intention behind using electronic signatures is to ensure they have the same legal validity and effect as traditional manual signatures. This means that an electronically signed version of the addendum is considered an original document for all legal and practical purposes. This provision applies whether the franchisee is an individual owner-operator or an entity.
For a prospective Burger King franchisee, this clause simplifies and modernizes the signing process. It allows for agreements to be executed remotely and efficiently, removing the need for physical paperwork and in-person signing. It's important for franchisees to understand that these electronic signatures are legally binding and carry the same weight as a handwritten signature, so due diligence and careful review of the documents remain essential.