What authority do the arbitrators have regarding the terms of the Craters & Freighters agreement?

According to Craters & Freighters' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the arbitrators in any dispute resolution process are specifically restricted in their ability to alter the franchise agreement. The arbitrators do not have the authority to add, delete, or modify the terms and provisions of the agreement in any way. Their decisions must be confined to the issues presented in the written demands of the parties involved.

This limitation ensures that the original contract terms agreed upon by both Craters & Freighters and the franchisee remain intact throughout any arbitration. It prevents arbitrators from imposing new obligations or removing existing ones, providing a level of predictability and stability for both parties. The arbitrators' findings, judgments, and awards must be limited to the scope of the dispute as defined in the written demands, reinforcing the boundary of their decision-making authority.

All decisions made by the arbitrators must be provided in writing within ten days after the hearing concludes. While any judgment can be entered in a court with competent jurisdiction, Craters & Freighters retains the right to seek injunctive or other relief from any court that has jurisdiction, regardless of whether a judgment has been entered. This ensures that Craters & Freighters can protect its interests through the court system if necessary, even during or after arbitration.