Is a faxed or electronically transmitted (including PDF) signature page of the Addendum to the Chicken Guy! Restaurant Development Agreement considered a valid original?
Chicken_Guy Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
This Addendum may be executed in multiple counterparts, each of which when executed and delivered shall be deemed an original and all of which together shall constitute one and the same agreement. Delivery of an executed counterpart of a signature page of this Addendum by facsimile and any other electronic transmission (including PDF) shall be as effective as delivery of a manually executed counterpart of this Addendum.
Source: Item 17 — RENEWAL, TERMINATION, TRANSFER AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION (FDD pages 40–46)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Chicken Guy FDD, an executed counterpart of a signature page of the Addendum delivered by facsimile or any other electronic transmission (including PDF) is considered as effective as a manually executed counterpart of the Addendum. This applies to addenda required for franchisees and developers in various states such as California, Illinois, Maryland, Washington, New York, South Dakota, Minnesota, and North Dakota.
This means that for Chicken Guy, franchisees do not need to physically mail the original signature pages of the addendum. Sending a faxed or PDF copy is sufficient, streamlining the process of finalizing the agreement. This is a common practice in the franchise industry, as it speeds up document processing and reduces administrative overhead.
However, it's important to note that this applies specifically to the signature page of the Addendum. The FDD does not explicitly state whether this also applies to the entire agreement or other documents. Franchisees should confirm with Chicken Guy if this method of delivery is acceptable for all documents related to the franchise agreement.