factual

In Washington, what options are available for the location of arbitration or mediation involving a Dryject franchise?

Dryject Franchise · 2025 FDD

Answer from 2025 FDD Document

    1. Site of Arbitration, Mediation, and/or Litigation. In any arbitration or mediation involving a franchise purchased in Washington, the arbitration or mediation site will be either in the state of Washington, or in a place mutually agreed upon at the time of the arbitration or mediation, or as determined by the arbitrator or mediator at the time of arbitration or mediation. In addition, if litigation is not precluded by the franchise agreement, a franchisee may bring an action or proceeding arising out of or in connection with the sale of franchises, or a violation of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, in Washington.

Source: Item 8 — BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP (FDD pages 68–229)

What This Means (2025 FDD)

According to Dryject's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a franchisee purchases a Dryject franchise in Washington, the arbitration or mediation site must be in Washington. However, there are exceptions. The location can be a place mutually agreed upon at the time of the arbitration or mediation. Alternatively, the arbitrator or mediator can determine the location at the time of arbitration or mediation.

This means that while Washington franchisees have some protection under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act regarding where disputes are resolved, there is room for negotiation or for the arbitrator/mediator to decide. Franchisees should carefully consider the implications of agreeing to a location outside of Washington, as it could increase travel costs and inconvenience during the dispute resolution process.

Furthermore, the FDD states that if litigation is not precluded by the franchise agreement, a franchisee can bring an action or proceeding arising out of or in connection with the sale of franchises, or a violation of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, in Washington. This provides an additional avenue for resolving disputes within the state if arbitration or mediation is not the chosen path.

Disclaimer: This information is extracted from the 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document and is provided for research purposes only. It does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult with a franchise attorney before making any investment decisions.