What is the process for exchanging rankings of acceptable mediators in a Kitchen Solvers dispute?

According to Kitchen Solvers' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if the parties involved in a dispute cannot agree on a mediator, they must exchange written lists of acceptable mediators who are not associated with either party. Each party is required to rank the mediators on their list in numerical order of preference. If there are names that appear on both lists, the individual with the highest ranking between the two lists will be designated as the mediator.

This process ensures a structured and unbiased approach to selecting a mediator, aiming to find someone both parties find acceptable. By exchanging ranked lists, Kitchen Solvers franchisees and the franchisor can identify common ground and choose a mediator who is likely to facilitate a fair resolution. This method helps avoid potential deadlocks in the mediation process and promotes a more efficient path to resolving disputes.

The mediation will take place in La Crosse, Wisconsin, where Kitchen Solvers' headquarters are located, unless both parties agree to a different location. This location requirement could present a logistical or financial burden for franchisees located far from Wisconsin. Franchisees should consider this when evaluating the potential costs and challenges of dispute resolution.

It is important for prospective Kitchen Solvers franchisees to understand this mediation process, as it outlines the steps to be taken should a dispute arise. Franchisees should also consider discussing with existing franchisees their experiences with the mediation process to better understand how it functions in practice and what challenges they might encounter.