In the release agreement for Hck Hot Chicken, who is included in the definition of 'Released Parties'?
Hck_Hot_Chicken Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
| THIS RELEASE is made and given by, |
|---|
| ("Releasor") with reference to the following facts: |
| 1. |
| Releasor and Hot Chikn Kitchn LLC. (Releasee) are parties to one or more franchise agreements. |
| 2. |
| The following consideration is given: |
| the execution by Releasor of a successor Franchise Agreement or other renewal |
| documents renewing the franchise (the "Franchise"); or |
| Releasor's consent to Releasee's transfer of its rights and duties under the Franchise |
| Agreement; or |
| Releasor's consent to Releasee's assumption of rights and duties under the Franchise |
| Agreement; or |
| [insert description] |
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- Release- Franchisee and all of Franchisee's guarantors, members, officers, directors, employees, agents, successors, assigns and affiliates fully and finally release and forever discharge Releasee, its past and present agents, employees, officers, directors, members, Franchisees, successors, assigns and affiliates (collectively "Released Parties") from any and all claims, actions, causes of action, contractual rights, demands, damages, costs, loss of services, expenses and compensation which Franchisee could assert against Released Parties or any of them up through and including the date of this Release.
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Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 54–55)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Hck Hot Chicken's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the release agreement specifies who the franchisee is releasing from liability. The 'Released Parties' encompass a broad range of individuals and entities associated with Hck Hot Chicken. This includes the Releasee, along with their past and present agents, employees, officers, directors, members, franchisees, successors, assigns, and affiliates.
This definition means that a franchisee, along with their guarantors, members, officers, directors, employees, agents, successors, assigns, and affiliates, agrees to release all those defined as 'Released Parties' from any potential claims, actions, or damages. This release extends to any issues that could be asserted up to the date of the release.
However, the release does not apply to liabilities arising under specific state franchise laws, such as the California Franchise Investment Law, the California Franchise Relations Act, and similar laws in Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, Rhode Island, and Washington. This ensures that franchisees retain their rights and protections under these franchise-specific regulations, despite signing the general release. Prospective franchisees should carefully review these exceptions and understand their rights under state laws before signing any release agreement.