To whom does the addendum to the Marble Slab Creamery Franchise Disclosure Document apply in Maryland?

According to the 2025 Marble Slab Creamery Franchise Disclosure Document, the addendum for the state of Maryland applies to franchises and franchisees who are subject to Maryland statutes and regulations. This means that if you are purchasing a Marble Slab Creamery franchise in Maryland, or if you are an existing franchisee operating in Maryland, the specific stipulations outlined in the addendum will be relevant to your franchise agreement and operations.

The addendum addresses several key aspects of the franchise relationship in light of Maryland law. For instance, it discusses the deferral of initial fees and payments due to the franchisor's financial condition, stipulations around termination, and the franchisee's right to bring lawsuits in Maryland under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law. It also clarifies the statute of limitations for claims and the inapplicability of general releases to liabilities under Maryland franchise law.

Furthermore, the addendum emphasizes that no statement or acknowledgment signed by a franchisee can waive claims under Maryland franchise law, including claims related to fraud. This provision is designed to protect franchisees from inadvertently relinquishing their legal rights. Therefore, prospective Marble Slab Creamery franchisees in Maryland should carefully review this addendum alongside the main disclosure document and the franchise agreement to fully understand their rights and obligations under Maryland law.