Where will arbitration take place for disputes arising from the Marble Slab Creamery agreement?

According to the 2025 Marble Slab Creamery FDD, arbitration proceedings will occur in the county where Marble Slab Creamery's headquarters is located. This applies to any claim or controversy arising from or related to the franchise agreement, except for claims regarding the ownership or use of Marble Slab Creamery's trademarks, enforcement of Section 9 of the agreement, or monies owed to Marble Slab Creamery.

This means that a franchisee may be required to travel to the location of Marble Slab Creamery's headquarters to resolve disputes through arbitration, which could involve significant travel costs and inconvenience depending on the franchisee's location. The franchisee is responsible for their own legal fees and expenses, while the fees and expenses of the Arbitration Association and the arbitrators will be paid by such party or parties as the arbitrators determine.

It's important to note that this arbitration clause dictates the venue for dispute resolution, potentially limiting a franchisee's ability to pursue claims in their local jurisdiction. Prospective franchisees should consider the potential costs and logistical challenges associated with arbitrating disputes at Marble Slab Creamery's headquarters. Franchisees in Washington State have additional protections: the arbitration or mediation site will be either in the state of Washington, or in a place mutually agreed upon at the time of the arbitration or mediation, or as determined by the arbitrator or mediator at the time of arbitration or mediation.