What reasons are NOT acceptable excuses for failing to personally appear for Ella Cafe mediation?
Ella_Cafe Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
Mediation must be conducted in person, and no telephonic or electronic appearance by any of the parties or their counsel is permitted except for the purposes of scheduling mediation or discussion non-material mediation-related matters.
- (f) Neither illness, Covid, inconvenience, weather, or any other reason shall serve to excuse your personal appearance for mediation.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 50)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Ella Cafe's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, there are no acceptable excuses for failing to personally attend mediation. The FDD explicitly states that illness, COVID-19, inconvenience, weather, or any other reason will not excuse a party from attending mediation in person.
This requirement underscores the importance Ella Cafe places on resolving disputes through mediation. It ensures that all parties are fully engaged in the process. The document specifies that mediation must be conducted in person, with telephonic or electronic appearances only allowed for scheduling or discussing non-material, mediation-related matters.
For a prospective Ella Cafe franchisee, this means that they must be prepared to travel and attend mediation sessions in person, regardless of potential personal or logistical challenges. Failure to do so could have legal or financial repercussions, as compliance with the franchise agreement is essential for maintaining a good standing with the franchisor.