Where will arbitration or mediation take place for a Chick Fil A franchise purchased in Washington?
Chick_Fil_A Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
-
- Site of Arbitration, Mediation, and/or Litigation. 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.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 103–600)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Chick Fil A's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a franchisee purchases a franchise in Washington and a dispute arises requiring arbitration or mediation, the location of these proceedings is subject to specific conditions. The arbitration or mediation site will be in Washington state. However, there are two exceptions to this rule.
First, the location can be a place mutually agreed upon by both Chick Fil A and the franchisee at the time of the arbitration or mediation. This provides an opportunity for both parties to find a location that is convenient and agreeable.
Second, if no mutual agreement is reached, the arbitrator or mediator has the authority to determine the location at the time of the arbitration or mediation. This ensures that a decision can be made even if the parties cannot agree, preventing potential delays in resolving the dispute. This stipulation is part of an addendum to the franchise agreement required by Washington state law, which also addresses conflict of laws and franchisee rights.