According to Circle K's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Minnesota statutes protect franchisees from being required to consent to liquidated damages. Specifically, an addendum to the FDD for Minnesota franchisees states that Minnesota Statutes, Section 80C.21 and Minnesota Rules 2860.4400(J) prohibit Circle K from requiring a franchisee to consent to liquidated damages. This protection is in place to ensure that franchisees are not subjected to unfair contractual terms that could be detrimental to their business.

This means that any clause within the standard Circle K franchise agreement that might suggest a franchisee's consent to liquidated damages is unenforceable in Minnesota. The FDD explicitly states that nothing in the disclosure document or agreements can reduce any of the franchisee's rights as provided for in Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 80C, or the franchisee's rights to any procedure, forum, or remedies provided for by the laws of the jurisdiction.

For a prospective Circle K franchisee in Minnesota, this is a significant protection. It ensures that they cannot be forced into agreeing to terms that might unfairly penalize them in the event of a dispute or termination. This provision is designed to balance the power dynamic between the franchisor and franchisee, providing a safeguard for the franchisee's interests under Minnesota law.