If a Chesters franchise agreement conflicts with the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, which prevails?
Chesters Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
WASHINGTON ADDENDUM TO FRANCHISE DISCLOSURE DOCUMENT, THE FRANCHISE AGREEMENT, FRANCHISE REPRESENTATIONS, AND RELATED AGREEMENTS
The provisions of this Addendum form an integral part of, are incorporated into, and modify the Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchise agreement, and all related agreements regardless of anything to the contrary contained therein. This Addendum applies if: (a) the offer to sell a franchise is accepted in Washington; (b) the purchaser of the franchise is a resident of Washington; and/or (c) the franchised business that is the subject of the sale is to be located or operated, wholly or partly, in Washington.
- Conflict of Laws. In the event of a conflict of laws, the provisions of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, chapter 19.100 RCW will prevail.
Source: Item 23 — **RECEIPTS (FDD pages 48–197)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Chesters's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if there is a conflict of laws, the provisions of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act will prevail. This is specified in the Washington Addendum to the Franchise Disclosure Document, which is an integral part of the franchise agreement for franchises offered or operated in Washington. This addendum modifies the standard franchise agreement to comply with Washington state law.
For a prospective Chesters franchisee in Washington, this means that the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act supersedes any conflicting terms in the franchise agreement. This protection extends to franchisees who accept the franchise offer in Washington, are residents of Washington, or will operate their Chesters franchise in Washington.
This ensures that Chesters franchisees in Washington are protected by their state's franchise laws, regardless of what the standard franchise agreement might state. Franchisees should be aware of their rights under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act and consult with an attorney if they believe any part of their franchise agreement conflicts with these rights.