Besides the modifications in the Addendum, what is the status of the Noodles & Company Franchise Agreement?
Noodles_Company Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Except as expressly modified by this Addendum, the Franchise Agreement remains unmodified and in full force and effect.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 98–99)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Noodles & Company Franchise Disclosure Document, the Franchise Agreement remains in full effect except for the express modifications within the addendum. This statement appears in addenda for multiple states, including Hawaii, Maryland, North Dakota, and Rhode Island. These addenda are integrated into the Franchise Agreement and are triggered by offering or selling a franchise to a resident of that state, or if the Noodles & Company restaurant will be located or operated in that state.
For prospective Noodles & Company franchisees, this means that the core terms of the Franchise Agreement remain unchanged unless specifically addressed by the addendum applicable to their state. Franchisees need to carefully review both the Franchise Agreement and any state-specific addenda to fully understand their rights and obligations. The modifications often address specific state laws and regulations, such as those related to franchise registration, disclosure, non-compete covenants, and dispute resolution.
Noodles & Company franchisees should pay close attention to the sections of the Franchise Agreement that the addendum modifies, as these changes can impact various aspects of the franchise relationship. For example, the Maryland addendum addresses the deferral of initial fees and payments, while the North Dakota addendum concerns the enforceability of non-compete agreements and jurisdiction for dispute resolution. The Minnesota addendum stipulates notice periods for termination and non-renewal, ensuring compliance with Minnesota Statute § 80C.14.
Therefore, when evaluating a Noodles & Company franchise, prospective franchisees must consider the interplay between the standard Franchise Agreement and any state-specific addenda. Understanding these modifications is crucial for making informed decisions and ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Franchisees should consult with legal counsel to fully comprehend the implications of these documents.