For C12 Group franchises in Washington, does the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act affect termination and renewal of the franchise?
C12_Group Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
REQUIRED BY STATE OF WASHINGTON
FOR PROSPECTIVE PURCHASERS IN THE STATE OF WASHINGTON
In the event of a conflict of laws, the provisions of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, Chapter 19.100 RCW will prevail.
RCW 19.100.180 may supersede the franchise agreement in your relationship with the franchisor including the areas of termination and renewal of your franchise. There may also be court decisions which may supersede the franchise agreement in your relationship with the franchisor including the areas of termination and renewal of your franchise.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 46–137)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 C12 Group Franchise Disclosure Document, the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act (Chapter 19.100 RCW) may indeed supersede the franchise agreement regarding termination and renewal for prospective franchisees in Washington. RCW 19.100.180 specifically addresses this potential superseding effect. Additionally, court decisions in Washington may also take precedence over the franchise agreement in matters of termination and renewal.
This means that certain provisions within the C12 Group franchise agreement relating to termination or renewal might not be enforceable in Washington if they conflict with the state's Franchise Investment Protection Act or relevant court rulings. A franchisee's rights regarding termination or renewal could be stronger or different than what is written in the franchise agreement itself due to these legal considerations.
Therefore, prospective C12 Group franchisees in Washington should carefully review Chapter 19.100 RCW and consult with legal counsel to understand their rights and obligations concerning franchise termination and renewal. They should also stay informed about any relevant court decisions that could impact the enforceability of specific clauses in the franchise agreement. This due diligence is crucial to ensure they are fully aware of their position under Washington law, regardless of what the standard C12 Group franchise agreement stipulates.