In Minnesota, can Crave Cookies require a franchisee to assent to a general release?

According to Crave Cookies' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Minnesota Rules prohibit Crave Cookies from requiring a franchisee to agree to a general release. This protection is explicitly stated in the Minnesota Addendum to the Disclosure Document, ensuring that franchisees in Minnesota are not obligated to sign away their rights through a general release as a condition of franchising.

This rule is significant for prospective Crave Cookies franchisees in Minnesota because it safeguards their ability to pursue legal claims against the franchisor if necessary. A general release typically waives all known and unknown claims, which could severely limit a franchisee's recourse in case of disputes or damages. By prohibiting this requirement, Minnesota law ensures that franchisees retain their legal rights and remedies.

This protection aligns with Minnesota's broader efforts to protect franchisees, as evidenced by other regulations mentioned in the addendum, such as restrictions on requiring litigation outside of Minnesota, waivers of jury trials, and consent to liquidated damages or termination penalties. Prospective franchisees should be aware of these specific protections afforded to them under Minnesota law, as detailed in the Crave Cookies Franchise Disclosure Document.