What is the required venue for mediation if a dispute arises with Hck Hot Chicken?
Hck_Hot_Chicken Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Mediation shall be conducted in the JAMS office closest to our principal place of business (currently Sarasota, FL) and shall be conducted and completed within 45 days following the date either party first gives notice of mediation.
If the parties fail to fully resolve such dispute through mediation within such 45-day period, either party may initiate arbitration.
The fees and expenses of the mediator shall be shared equally by the parties.
The mediator shall be disqualified as a witness, expert or counsel for any party with respect to any suit and any related matter.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 55–245)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Hck Hot Chicken's 2025 Area Development Agreement, if a dispute arises that requires mediation, the mediation will be conducted at the JAMS office closest to Hck Hot Chicken's principal place of business. Currently, their principal place of business is located in Sarasota, FL.
This means that any mediation proceedings between the area developer and Hck Hot Chicken will take place in the JAMS office nearest to Sarasota, FL, regardless of where the area developer's business is located. This could potentially create additional travel and logistical expenses for the franchisee if they are not located near Sarasota.
The mediation must be conducted and completed within 45 days from the date either party gives notice of mediation. If the parties cannot resolve the dispute through mediation within this 45-day period, either party can initiate arbitration. The fees and expenses of the mediator will be shared equally between Hck Hot Chicken and the area developer. The mediator is disqualified from being a witness, expert, or counsel for any party in any related suit.