If mediation is used to resolve a dispute with Crave Cookies, who pays the costs of the mediation?

According to Crave Cookies's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a dispute arises and mediation is pursued, the costs are divided between the franchisee and Crave Cookies Franchising. Specifically, both parties will equally split the costs associated with the mediation process. Each party is also responsible for covering their own additional expenses incurred during mediation.

This arrangement means that a franchisee will not be solely responsible for all mediation costs, which can be a significant financial benefit. However, franchisees should still be prepared to pay for half of the mediation costs, as well as their own legal or consulting fees. The mediation will be held at Crave Cookies Franchising's headquarters.

It is important to note that this cost-sharing arrangement applies specifically to mediation. If the dispute escalates to a legal proceeding, the terms for covering legal costs shift, potentially placing the burden on the non-prevailing party to cover the prevailing party's legal fees and expenses.