Are the franchisee's partners included in the Card My Yard general release?

According to Card My Yard's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the transferor, including its owners if applicable, must execute a general release. This release, in a form satisfactory to Card My Yard, covers any and all claims against Card My Yard, its affiliates, and their respective officers, directors, shareholders, partners, members, agents, representatives, independent contractors, servants, and employees, both past and present, in their corporate and individual capacities. The claims include, but are not limited to, those arising under the Franchise Agreement, any other agreement with Card My Yard or its affiliates, and under federal, state, or local laws, rules, and regulations or orders.

This means that if a franchisee transfers their Card My Yard business, the franchisee and their owners (if applicable) must sign a release that prevents them from suing Card My Yard. This release extends to Card My Yard's affiliates, officers, directors, shareholders, partners, members, agents, representatives, independent contractors, servants, and employees. The release covers a broad range of potential claims, ensuring that Card My Yard is protected from future legal action by the transferring franchisee and their owners.

This requirement is a standard practice in franchising to protect the franchisor from potential liabilities after a transfer. A prospective franchisee should carefully review the general release document to understand the full scope of claims being waived before agreeing to the transfer.