If a Crisp & Green franchise is to be operated in Maryland, is the Franchisee Acknowledgment supposed to be signed?
Crisp_Green Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
THIS DOCUMENT SHALL NOT BE SIGNED BY YOU, AND WILL NOT APPLY, IF THE OFFER OR SALE OF THE FRANCHISE IS SUBJECT TO THE STATE FRANCHISE REGISTRATION/DISCLOSURE LAWS IN THE STATES OF CALIFORNIA, HAWAII, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, MARYLAND, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, NEW YORK, NORTH DAKOTA, RHODE ISLAND, SOUTH DAKOTA, VIRGINIA, WASHINGTON, OR WISCONSIN.
DO NOT SIGN THE ACKNOWLEDGEMENT IF THE FRANCHISE IS TO BE OPERATED IN, OR YOU ARE A RESIDENT OF, MARYLAND.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 66–252)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Crisp & Green's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Franchisee Acknowledgment should not be signed if the franchise is to be operated in Maryland. The document explicitly states that the Franchisee Acknowledgment is not to be signed if the offer or sale of the franchise is subject to state franchise registration/disclosure laws in Maryland, among other states.
This instruction is intended to protect the franchisee. The FDD also states that no statement, questionnaire, or acknowledgment signed by a franchisee can waive claims under state franchise law or disclaim reliance on statements made by the franchisor. This provision is designed to prevent franchisees from inadvertently giving up their legal rights.
Prospective Crisp & Green franchisees in Maryland should pay close attention to this instruction and ensure they do not sign the Franchisee Acknowledgment. Signing it could create confusion or potentially weaken their legal position in the event of a dispute with the franchisor. Franchisees should consult with an attorney to fully understand their rights and obligations under Maryland franchise law.