In Washington, where will arbitration or mediation take place for a Cordova franchise?

According to Cordova's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a franchisee purchases a franchise in Washington, the arbitration or mediation site will be in the state of Washington. However, the location can be a place mutually agreed upon at the time of the arbitration or mediation. The location could also be determined by the arbitrator or mediator at the time of arbitration or mediation.

This amendment ensures that Cordova franchisees in Washington are not forced to travel to a distant or inconvenient location for dispute resolution. It provides flexibility by allowing for mutual agreement on a site or arbitrator/mediator determination, but establishes Washington as the default location.

This is a beneficial protection for franchisees, as it prevents Cordova from imposing an unfavorable venue for dispute resolution. Franchise agreements often include clauses specifying the location for arbitration or mediation, which can be costly and burdensome for franchisees if the location is far from their business or residence. This Washington amendment aims to level the playing field and ensure a fairer process for resolving disputes.