Does the Bw Premier Collection franchise agreement prohibit a franchisee from joining an association of franchisees?

According to Bw Premier Collection's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchise agreement's stance on franchisees joining associations is addressed specifically within the context of Michigan law. The FDD includes an addendum applicable to Michigan franchisees due to the Michigan Franchise Investment Law.

Specifically, the addendum states that the State of Michigan prohibits certain unfair provisions that are sometimes included in franchise documents. Among these prohibited provisions is "(a) A prohibition on the right of a franchisee to join an association of franchisees." This means that if the Bw Premier Collection franchise agreement contains any clause that restricts a franchisee's right to join an association, that clause is void and unenforceable in Michigan.

For prospective Bw Premier Collection franchisees in Michigan, this addendum ensures their right to associate with other franchisees is protected under state law. Franchisees in other states do not have this explicit protection called out in the FDD. Franchisees should consult with legal counsel to understand the full scope of their rights and any potential restrictions in their specific franchise agreement and local jurisdiction.