Are there any restrictions on statute of limitations periods for claims under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act related to a Cinnabon franchise?
Cinnabon Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- **5.
Statute of Limitations and Waiver of Jury Trial.** Provisions contained in the franchise agreement or related agreements that unreasonably restrict or limit the statute of limitations period for claims under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, or rights or remedies under the Act such as a right to a jury trial, may not be enforceable.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 114–399)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Cinnabon Franchise Disclosure Document, provisions in the franchise agreement or related documents that unreasonably restrict or limit the statute of limitations period for claims under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act may not be enforceable. This protection is part of the Washington Addendum to the Franchise Disclosure Document, Franchise Agreement, and all related agreements, which applies if the franchise is offered or accepted in Washington, the purchaser is a Washington resident, or the franchised business is located or operated in Washington.
This means that Cinnabon franchisees in Washington are entitled to the full statutory period to bring claims under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, and the franchise agreement cannot unduly shorten this period. This ensures that franchisees have adequate time to discover and pursue legal remedies for potential violations of the Act.
It is important for prospective Cinnabon franchisees in Washington to understand that while the franchise agreement is subject to state law, any attempts to limit the statute of limitations for claims under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act may not be upheld. Franchisees should consult with an attorney to fully understand their rights and the applicable statute of limitations under Washington law.