Who pays the mediator's fee in a Dryject dispute mediation?
Dryject Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Each party will bear their own costs and fees of the mediation, however, the mediator's fee will be split equally between the parties."
Source: Item 8 — BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP (FDD pages 68–229)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Dryject's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, in the event of a dispute requiring mediation, the mediator's fee will be split equally between Dryject and the franchisee. Each party is responsible for covering their own additional costs and fees associated with the mediation process.
This arrangement means that a franchisee will not be solely responsible for the mediator's costs, which can be a significant expense. By splitting the fee, Dryject shares the financial burden of dispute resolution, potentially making mediation a more accessible option for franchisees who may have limited resources. This encourages a more collaborative approach to resolving conflicts before they escalate into more costly and time-consuming legal battles.
It is important to note that this cost-sharing arrangement applies specifically to the mediator's fee. Franchisees should be aware that they will still be responsible for their own legal fees, travel expenses, and any other costs they incur during the mediation process. Understanding these financial responsibilities is crucial for franchisees when considering whether to pursue mediation as a means of resolving a dispute with Dryject.
This type of arrangement is fairly common in franchising, as it promotes fairness and encourages both parties to participate actively in seeking a resolution. Franchise agreements often include clauses outlining dispute resolution processes, including mediation and arbitration, to avoid costly litigation. Splitting the mediator's fee is a way to ensure that both parties have a financial incentive to reach a mutually agreeable outcome.