For a Petro Stopping Center franchise purchased in Washington, where will arbitration or mediation take place?
Petro_Stopping_Center Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
In any arbitration or mediation involving a franchise purchase in Washington, the arbitration or mediation site will be either 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, you 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 4 — Other Owners: (FDD pages 228–302)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Petro Stopping Center's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a franchisee purchases a franchise in Washington, 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 arbitrator or mediator can also determine the location at the time of arbitration or mediation.
Additionally, if the Franchise Agreement does not preclude litigation, the franchisee can bring an action or proceeding arising out of or related to the sale of franchises, or a violation of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, in Washington.
This addendum ensures that franchisees in Washington have the option to resolve disputes within their own state, which can reduce travel costs and logistical challenges. It also protects their rights under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, ensuring that they can pursue legal action in Washington if necessary.