Is there a requirement for in-person mediation with Degree Wellness, or can it be conducted by telephone?

According to Degree Wellness's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, internal mediation can be conducted either in person or by telephone. The FDD specifies that if no settlement is reached through internal mediation within 30 days of a written request, the dispute will be submitted for arbitration. Internal mediation includes reasonable business discussions between the parties, which can occur via telephone or in person.

This means that a franchisee is not necessarily required to travel for mediation, offering flexibility and potentially reducing costs associated with dispute resolution. The option for telephone mediation allows for quicker and more convenient communication during the initial stages of conflict resolution. This can be particularly beneficial for franchisees who may be located far from Degree Wellness's headquarters or other relevant parties.

However, it is important to note that if internal mediation fails, the dispute will proceed to arbitration, which may involve more formal proceedings and potentially higher costs. Franchisees should be prepared for the possibility of both telephone/in-person mediation and subsequent arbitration if a resolution cannot be reached initially. Understanding this process is crucial for managing expectations and preparing for potential legal disputes with Degree Wellness.