What is the impact of state law on the non-competition covenants for Devon Creek franchisees?
Devon_Creek Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
| Section in | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise | |||
| Provision | Agreement | Summary | |
| n. | Franchisor's right of first refusal to acquire franchisee's business | Section 16.6 | Summary You must promptly notify us of any written offer to purchase your Franchise. We have fifteen (15) days to exercise our first right to buy it on the same terms and conditions, provided that (a) we may substitute cash for any other consideration, (b) we may pay the entire purchase price at closing, (c) our credit is deemed as good as the proposed purchaser, |
| Enoughison's oution to muchoso | Section 18.2 | (d) we have at least thirty (30) days to close and (e) you shall give us all customary seller's representations and warranties. | |
| 0. | Franchisor's option to purchase franchisee's business | Upon termination of the Franchise Agreement, we have the option to purchase your equipment, signs, advertising materials, supplies and inventory at your cost or fair market value, whichever is less. | |
| p. | Death or disability of franchisee | Sections 16.3, 16.4 and 16.7 | The Franchise Agreement will terminate automatically upon your death or permanent disability, unless prohibited by law and the Franchise is transferred within three (3) months to a replacement franchisee that we approve. |
| q. | Non-competition covenants during the term of the franchise | Section 19.5.1 | You may not: divert, or attempt to divert, customers or referral sources of any Devon Creek outlet (including yours) to any competitor, participate in any capacity, including, but not limited to as an owner, investor, officer, director, employee, or agent, in any competing business; do any act that could damage the goodwill of the Marks or System, or disrupt or jeopardize our business or that of our franchisees. Subject to state law. |
| r. | Non-competition covenants after the franchise is terminated or expires | Section 19.5.2 | For twenty four (24) months after the termination of the Franchise Agreement, you may not: divert, or attempt to divert, customers or referral sources of any Devon Creek outlet (including yours) to any competitor, participate in any capacity, including, but not limited to as an owner, investor, officer, director, employee or agent, in any competing business within ten (25) miles of your former Devon Creek Territory or any other Devon Creek office location; do any act that could damage the goodwill of the Marks or System, or disrupt or jeopardize our business or that of our franchisees. Subject to state law. |
Source: Item 17 — RENEWAL, TERMINATION, TRANSFER AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION (FDD pages 37–42)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Devon Creek's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, state law has an impact on the non-competition covenants both during and after the franchise term. The franchise agreement specifies non-compete restrictions, but these are explicitly "subject to state law." This means that the enforceability and specific terms of the non-competition agreements can vary depending on the state where the franchise is located.
During the term of the franchise, a Devon Creek franchisee cannot divert customers, participate in competing businesses, damage goodwill, or disrupt the business. After termination or expiration of the franchise agreement, the franchisee is restricted for twenty-four months from similar activities within ten miles of their former Devon Creek territory or any other Devon Creek office location. However, these restrictions are subject to state law, meaning a state may invalidate or modify these terms.
Prospective Devon Creek franchisees should consult with an attorney to understand the specific non-competition laws in their state. State laws vary widely regarding the enforceability of non-compete agreements. Some states may have stricter requirements for enforceability, such as shorter time periods or smaller geographic areas. Other states may prohibit or severely limit non-compete agreements altogether. Franchisees should also review any state-specific addenda to the Franchise Disclosure Document and Franchise Agreement for additional disclosures.