What law governs the agreements between parties to a Circle K franchise in Illinois?
Circle_K Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
ADDENDUM TO FRANCHISE DISCLOSURE DOCUMENT FOR THE STATE OF ILLINOIS
Illinois law governs the agreements between the parties to this franchise.
Section 4 of the Illinois Franchise Disclosure Act provides that any provision in a franchise agreement that designates jurisdiction or venue outside the State of Illinois is void. However, a franchise agreement may provide for arbitration outside of Illinois.
Section 41 of the Illinois Franchise Disclosure Act provides that any condition, stipulation or provision purporting to bind any person acquiring any franchise to waive compliance with the Illinois Franchise Disclosure Act or any other law of Illinois is void.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 100)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Circle K Franchise Disclosure Document, Illinois law governs the agreements between the parties to a Circle K franchise. However, there are exceptions to this rule.
Specifically, the Illinois Franchise Disclosure Act governs matters arising under it. Additionally, the United States Trademark Act of 1946 (Lanham Act) and the Federal Arbitration Act govern to the extent applicable.
Furthermore, any provision in the franchise agreement that designates jurisdiction or venue outside the State of Illinois is void, although the agreement may provide for arbitration outside of Illinois. Also, any condition that binds a person acquiring a franchise to waive compliance with the Illinois Franchise Disclosure Act or any other law of Illinois is void. These stipulations are included in an addendum to the franchise disclosure document for the state of Illinois.