For a Moes Southwest Grill franchise purchased in Washington, where will arbitration or mediation take place?
Moes_Southwest_Grill Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
aser of the franchise is a resident of Washington; and/or (c) the franchised business that is the subject of the sale is to be located or operated, wholly or partly, in Washington.
- 1. Conflict of Laws. In the event of a conflict of laws, the provisions of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, chapter 19.100 RCW will prevail.
- 2. Franchisee Bill of Rights. RCW 19.100.180 may supersede provisions in the franchise agreement or related agreements concerning your relationship with the franchisor, including in the areas of termination and renewal of your franchise. There may also be court decisions that supersede the
Source: Item 22 — Contracts (FDD page 92)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 FDD, if a Moe's Southwest Grill franchise is purchased in Washington, the location for arbitration or mediation will be determined according to the Washington Addendum. The arbitration or mediation site will be in the state of Washington. However, the location can be a place mutually agreed upon at the time of the arbitration or mediation. The location could also be determined by the arbitrator or mediator at the time of arbitration or mediation.
This stipulation is part of the Washington Addendum to the Franchise Agreement, which takes precedence over any conflicting terms in the standard agreement. This ensures that franchisees in Washington have the option to resolve disputes within their own state, which can reduce travel costs and logistical challenges.
Additionally, the addendum states that if litigation is not precluded by the franchise agreement, a franchisee in Washington may bring an action or proceeding arising out of or in connection with the sale of franchises, or a violation of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, in Washington.