What state's law governs the Crave Cookies franchise agreement, regardless of other provisions?
Crave_Cookies Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
In the event of a conflict of laws, the provisions of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, Chapter 19.100 RCW will prevail.
RCW 19.100.180 may supersede the franchise agreement in your relationship with the franchisor including the areas of termination and renewal of your franchise. There may also be court decisions which may supersede the franchise agreement in your relationship with the franchisor including the areas of termination and renewal of your franchise.
No statement, questionnaire, or acknowledgment signed or agreed to by a franchisee in connection with the commencement of the franchise relationship shall have the effect of (i) waiving any claims under any applicable state franchise law, including fraud in the inducement, or (ii) disclaiming reliance on any statement made by any franchisor, franchise seller, or other person acting on behalf of the franchisor. This provision supersedes any other term of any document executed in connection with the franchise.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 47–194)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Crave Cookies Franchise Disclosure Document, the laws of Washington State will prevail over any conflicting terms in the franchise agreement due to the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, Chapter 19.100 RCW. This means that certain aspects of the franchise agreement, particularly those concerning termination and renewal, may be superseded by Washington law (RCW 19.100.180). Additionally, any statement that implies a waiver of claims under state franchise law or disclaims reliance on franchisor statements is invalid.
This addendum ensures that Crave Cookies franchisees in Washington are protected by the state's franchise laws, which take precedence over conflicting terms in the standard franchise agreement. This protection extends to key areas such as termination, renewal, and liability. The FDD emphasizes that franchisees cannot waive their rights under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act (RCW 19.100.220), reinforcing the state's commitment to franchisee protection.
For a prospective Crave Cookies franchisee in Washington, this addendum provides significant legal safeguards. It ensures that the franchisee's rights under Washington law are fully protected, regardless of what the standard franchise agreement might state. Franchisees should be aware of these protections and consult with legal counsel to fully understand their rights under Washington's franchise laws.