Does the City Publications Franchisee acknowledge reading the terms of the binding arbitration provision?

According to the 2025 City Publications Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisee expressly acknowledges that they have read the terms of the binding arbitration provision. Furthermore, the franchisee specifically affirms that this provision is entered into willingly and voluntarily and without any fraud, duress, or undue influence on the part of City Publications or any of its agents or employees.

This acknowledgement is part of Section 25 of the franchise agreement, which covers various acknowledgements by the franchisee. These acknowledgements also include the franchisee's representation that they have received, read, and understood the agreement and City Publications' Uniform Franchise Offering Circular. The franchisee also acknowledges that City Publications has provided them ample time and opportunity to consult with advisors about the potential benefits and risks of entering into the agreement.

This clause is intended to ensure that the franchisee is fully aware of the arbitration provision and agrees to it without any coercion. Binding arbitration means that any disputes arising from the franchise agreement will be resolved through arbitration rather than through the court system. This can be a faster and less expensive way to resolve disputes, but it also means that the franchisee waives their right to a jury trial.