Does the Chocolate Bash franchise agreement specify which Commercial Mediation Rules are to be followed?

Based on the excerpts from Chocolate Bash's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, there is no mention of specific Commercial Mediation Rules within the provided Item 22 excerpts. The franchise agreement and its addenda, as described, do not detail the particular set of rules that would govern a mediation process, should one occur. Item 22 broadly covers various aspects of the franchise agreement, including definitions, grants of licenses, and obligations of both the franchisor and franchisee, but it does not delve into the specifics of mediation rules.

Without a defined set of rules, any mediation could be subject to negotiation and agreement between the parties at the time of the dispute. This could introduce uncertainty and potentially increase the cost and complexity of resolving conflicts. Franchisees might find themselves in a position where they need to agree on the mediation process ad hoc, which may not be ideal during a dispute.

A prospective Chocolate Bash franchisee should seek clarification from the franchisor regarding the specific rules or procedures that would govern mediation. Understanding this aspect is crucial for assessing the potential costs and processes involved in dispute resolution. It would be prudent to discuss this with a franchise attorney to fully understand the implications and to potentially negotiate terms that provide more clarity and protection for the franchisee.