Are prospective Ella Cafe franchisees who reside in or intend to operate in Maryland required to complete the Franchise Disclosure Questionnaire?

According to Ella Cafe's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, prospective franchisees who reside in or intend to operate their franchise in the state of Maryland are explicitly instructed not to complete the Franchise Disclosure Questionnaire. This directive is clearly stated within the questionnaire itself.

The purpose of the Franchise Disclosure Questionnaire is to ascertain whether any unauthorized or misleading statements or promises were made to the prospective franchisee during the franchise sales process. It also aims to ensure that the franchisee has been properly represented and understands the limitations on claims they can make regarding the purchase and operation of the franchise.

This instruction for Maryland franchisees suggests that Ella Cafe may have specific legal or regulatory considerations in Maryland that necessitate a different approach to verifying the franchisee's understanding and experience. Prospective franchisees should consult with Ella Cafe directly to understand the reasons behind this specific exemption and what alternative steps, if any, are required to fulfill the questionnaire's objectives.