What release must a Card My Yard franchisee and their Owners execute to renew the Franchise Agreement?

According to Card My Yard's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, to renew the Franchise Agreement, both the franchisee and their Owners must execute a general release. This release 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, federal, state, or local laws, rules, regulations, or orders.

In practical terms, this means that before Card My Yard will allow a franchisee to renew their agreement, the franchisee and their Owners must waive any legal rights they might have against the franchisor. This is a standard practice in franchising, intended to prevent future litigation based on past events. Franchisees should carefully consider this requirement and consult with an attorney to understand the full implications of signing such a release.

This requirement is one of several conditions that Card My Yard imposes for renewal. Other conditions include refurbishing equipment, compliance with the existing agreement, satisfying monetary obligations, demonstrating the right to remain in possession of the franchise location, executing the then-current form of renewal franchise agreement, paying a renewal fee of $3,000, and complying with current qualification and training requirements. Meeting all these conditions is necessary for a Card My Yard franchisee to secure a renewal of their franchise agreement.