Where will arbitration or mediation take place for a Pearce Bespoke franchise purchased in Washington?
Pearce_Bespoke Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
In any arbitration or mediation involving a franchise purchased in Washington, 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. In addition, if litigation is not precluded by the franchise agreement, a franchisee 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.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 39)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Pearce Bespoke's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, for a franchise purchased in Washington, any arbitration or mediation will occur either in the state of Washington, at a location mutually agreed upon by both parties at the time of the arbitration or mediation, or as determined by the arbitrator or mediator during the proceedings.
This means that prospective Pearce Bespoke franchisees in Washington have some protection regarding the location of dispute resolution. They cannot be forced to travel to a distant or inconvenient location unless they agree to it. The arbitrator or mediator also has the authority to determine the location, which could be beneficial if a neutral site is needed.
Additionally, the FDD states that if litigation is not precluded by the franchise agreement, a franchisee can bring legal action related to the sale of franchises or violations of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act in Washington. This provides an additional layer of protection, allowing franchisees to pursue legal remedies within their own state under certain conditions.