Where will arbitration or mediation take place for a Canine Dimensions franchise purchased in Washington?
Canine_Dimensions Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
In any arbitration or mediation involving a franchise purchased in Washington, the arbitration or mediation site will be either in the state of Washington, or in a place mutually agreed upon at the time of the arbitration or mediation, or as determined by the arbitrator or mediator at the time of arbitration or mediation. In addition, if litigation is not precluded by the franchise agreement, a franchisee may bring an action or proceeding arising out of or in connection with the sale of franchises, or a violation of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, in Washington.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 36)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Canine Dimensions' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, for a franchise purchased in Washington, any arbitration or mediation will occur in one of three locations. The first option is within the state of Washington. The second option is a location mutually agreed upon by both Canine Dimensions and the franchisee at the time of the arbitration or mediation. The third option is a location determined by the arbitrator or mediator during the arbitration or mediation proceedings.
This means that franchisees in Washington have some protection regarding the location of dispute resolution. Unlike some franchise agreements that mandate a specific location favorable to the franchisor (such as their home state), Canine Dimensions allows for arbitration or mediation to occur in Washington, or at a mutually agreed upon location. This can save the franchisee significant travel costs and inconvenience.
However, it's important to note that the final decision on the location could rest with the arbitrator or mediator if an agreement cannot be reached. A prospective Canine Dimensions franchisee should consider the potential costs and logistical challenges of arbitrating or mediating in a location that is not their preferred choice. They should also be aware of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, which may supersede the franchise agreement in certain areas.
Furthermore, the FDD states that a franchisee in Washington may bring an action or proceeding arising out of or in connection with the sale of franchises, or a violation of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, in Washington, if litigation is not precluded by the franchise agreement.