Does the Engel & Volkers franchise agreement acknowledge that the franchisee acts in their own interest?

According to Engel & Volkers's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchise agreement explicitly acknowledges that the franchisee acts in their own interest. The agreement states that the franchise relationship is a commercial one where each party operates independently. This acknowledgement is part of a series of representations and warranties made by the franchisee upon signing the agreement.

This provision is included to ensure that the franchisee understands they are entering into an arm's-length business relationship with Engel & Volkers. It reinforces the idea that the franchisee is responsible for their own business decisions and outcomes. The franchisee confirms they have conducted their own investigation, haven't misrepresented information to obtain the agreement, and had the opportunity to contact existing franchisees.

By acknowledging this, the franchisee accepts that they are responsible for their own success and that Engel & Volkers is not liable for the franchisee's business decisions. This is a common clause in franchise agreements, intended to clarify the independent nature of the franchisor-franchisee relationship and to protect the franchisor from potential liabilities arising from the franchisee's actions.