Does the Washington addendum affect all related agreements for a Fat Shack franchise?

According to the 2025 Fat Shack Franchise Disclosure Document, for Washington franchisees, a release or waiver of rights executed by a franchisee cannot include rights under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act (RCW 19.100) or any rule or order, unless it's a negotiated settlement after the agreement is in effect and the parties are represented by independent counsel. This addendum specifically applies to the Franchise Agreement.

This means that Fat Shack franchisees in Washington State have specific protections under state law that cannot be waived except under very specific circumstances. This ensures that franchisees retain their rights under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act unless they knowingly and voluntarily relinquish them during a settlement with independent legal representation.

This type of state-specific addendum is common in franchising, as franchise laws vary significantly from state to state. Prospective Fat Shack franchisees in Washington should carefully review this addendum with their legal counsel to fully understand their rights and obligations under the franchise agreement and Washington law. This ensures they are aware of the protections afforded to them and the conditions under which those rights can be waived.