Is a Cinnaholic franchisee in Washington prohibited from communicating with regulators?
Cinnaholic Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Any provision in the franchise agreement or related agreements that prohibits the franchisee from communicating with or complaining to regulators is
inconsistent with the express instructions in the Franchise Disclosure Document and is unlawful under RCW 19.100.180(2)(h).
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS, AND TRAINING (FDD pages 27–35)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Cinnaholic FDD, any provision within the franchise agreement or related documents that restricts a franchisee in Washington from communicating with or lodging complaints to regulators is inconsistent with the franchise disclosure document's instructions and is considered unlawful under Washington state law (RCW 19.100.180(2)(h)).
This means that Cinnaholic franchisees operating in Washington have the right to communicate freely with regulatory bodies without fear of reprisal or legal repercussions from the franchisor. This protection ensures that franchisees can report concerns or violations without violating their franchise agreement.
This provision is included as an addendum specifically for Washington State, highlighting the importance of adhering to local laws and regulations. It supersedes any conflicting terms in the standard franchise agreement, reinforcing the franchisee's right to communicate with regulators.