In Michigan, is a Churchs Chicken franchisee prohibited from joining an association of franchisees?
Churchs_Chicken Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
THE STATE OF MICHIGAN PROHIBITS CERTAIN UNFAIR PROVISIONS THAT ARE SOMETIMES IN FRANCHISE DOCUMENTS. IF ANY OF THE FOLLOWING PROVISIONS ARE IN THESE FRANCHISE DOCUMENTS, THE PROVISIONS ARE VOID AND CANNOT BE ENFORCED AGAINST YOU:
- A. A PROHIBITION ON THE RIGHT OF A FRANCHISEE TO JOIN AN ASSOCIATION OF FRANCHISEES.
Source: Item 17 — RENEWAL, TERMINATION, TRANSFER AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION (FDD pages 50–55)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Churchs Chicken's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Michigan law prohibits franchise agreements from containing certain unfair provisions. Specifically, the FDD states that any provision prohibiting a Churchs Chicken franchisee from joining an association of franchisees is void and unenforceable in Michigan. This means that Churchs Chicken cannot legally prevent its Michigan franchisees from forming or joining an association with other franchisees.
This protection ensures that Churchs Chicken franchisees in Michigan have the right to organize and collectively address issues or concerns with the franchisor. Franchisee associations can provide a platform for franchisees to share information, negotiate with the franchisor on matters such as marketing, supply chain, or operational standards, and advocate for their collective interests.
For a prospective Churchs Chicken franchisee in Michigan, this legal protection is a significant benefit. It allows them to connect with other franchisees, pool resources, and potentially have a stronger voice in their relationship with Churchs Chicken. It is important for potential franchisees to understand these rights and consider the benefits of participating in or forming a franchisee association.