Does the release provided to Crave Cookies cover claims that are currently unknown?
Crave_Cookies Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Releasor (on behalf of itself and its parents, subsidiaries and affiliates and their respective past and present officers, directors, shareholders, managers, members, partners, agents, and employees (collectively, the "Releasing Parties")) hereby releases Crave Cookies Franchising, its affiliates, and their respective directors, officers, shareholders, employees, and agents (collectively, the "Released Parties") from any and all claims, causes of action, suits, debts, agreements, promises, demands, liabilities, contractual rights and/or obligations, of whatever nature, known or unknown, which any Releasing Party now has or ever had against any Released Party based upon and/or arising out of events that occurred through the date hereof, including without limitation, anything arising out of the Franchise Agreement (collectively, "Claims").
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 47–194)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Crave Cookies' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the general release provided by Crave Cookies covers both known and unknown claims. The release is executed by the franchisee (Releasor) in favor of Crave Cookies Franchising, LLC. This release is not signed when purchasing a franchise but may be required for circumstances such as a renewal or the approval of a sale.
The release states that the franchisee releases Crave Cookies Franchising from any and all claims, causes of action, suits, debts, agreements, promises, demands, liabilities, contractual rights, and/or obligations, of whatever nature, known or unknown. These claims include anything arising out of the Franchise Agreement and based upon events that occurred through the date of the release.
This means a franchisee signing the release waives their right to sue Crave Cookies for any past or present issue, even if the franchisee is not yet aware of the issue. The franchisee also agrees not to initiate any legal actions against Crave Cookies. However, this release does not apply to any liability under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law or claims arising under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act.
Prospective franchisees should carefully consider the implications of signing such a broad release, especially in situations like franchise renewal or sale, and consult with legal counsel to fully understand their rights and obligations. Franchisees in Maryland and Washington have additional protections under their respective state laws, which are not waived by this general release.