In Maryland, are acknowledgements or representations by Chop5 Salad Kitchen franchisees intended to act as a release of any liability incurred under the Maryland Law?

According to Chop5 Salad Kitchen's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, acknowledgements or representations by prospective franchisees in Maryland are not intended to act as a release, estoppel, or waiver of any liability incurred under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law. This means that even if a franchisee acknowledges certain conditions or disclaims certain actions, these acknowledgements will not absolve Chop5 Salad Kitchen of liability under Maryland law.

This provision is specifically included to comply with Maryland franchise law. The Franchise Disclosure Questionnaire requires prospective franchisees to either disclaim the occurrence or acknowledge the non-occurrence of acts that could be violations of Maryland franchise law as a condition of purchasing the franchise. However, any such representations made by the franchisee are explicitly stated not to act as a release of liability for Chop5 Salad Kitchen.

This amendment ensures that franchisees retain their rights and protections under Maryland law, regardless of any acknowledgements or representations they make during the franchise application process. It also reinforces that Chop5 Salad Kitchen cannot use these acknowledgements to shield itself from legal responsibility under Maryland franchise law.