In Virginia, what specific part of Item 17 of the Dryject Disclosure Document is modified by the addendum?
Dryject Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
The Summary column of Item 17 Paragraph (h) of the Virginia Disclosure Document is modified by adding the following at the end of the sentence:
"Pursuant to Section 13.1.564 of the Virginia Franchising Act, it is unlawful for a franchisor to cancel a franchise agreement without reasonable cause. If any ground for default or termination stated in the franchise agreement does not constitute "reasonable cause" as that term may be defined in the Virginia Retail Franchising Act or laws of Virginia, that provision may not be enforceable."
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 8 — BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP (FDD pages 68–229)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Dryject's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Virginia addendum modifies a specific part of Item 17, which generally covers renewal, termination, transfer, and dispute resolution aspects of the franchise agreement. Specifically, the summary column of paragraph (h) in Item 17 is amended. This modification adds a statement regarding the enforceability of termination clauses under Virginia law.
The addendum clarifies that any grounds for default or termination stated in the franchise agreement must constitute "reasonable cause" as defined by the Virginia Retail Franchising Act. If a termination clause does not meet this standard, it may not be enforceable. This is an important protection for Dryject franchisees in Virginia, as it prevents Dryject from terminating the agreement without a legally justifiable reason.
Furthermore, the Virginia addendum includes a provision that protects franchisees from waiving claims under state franchise law or disclaiming reliance on statements made by Dryject. This means that any statement, questionnaire, or acknowledgment signed by the franchisee cannot be used to waive their rights or disclaim reliance on Dryject's representations, reinforcing franchisee protections under Virginia law.