Where will arbitration or mediation take place for a Punch King Fitness franchise purchased in Washington?

According to Punch King Fitness's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, for any franchise purchased in Washington, the arbitration or mediation site will be in the state of Washington. However, the location can also 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.

This means that if a dispute arises between a Punch King Fitness franchisee in Washington and the franchisor, the initial default location for resolving the dispute through arbitration or mediation will be within Washington state. This offers a degree of convenience and potentially lower travel costs for the franchisee compared to a scenario where the proceedings are held out of state.

However, there is flexibility in this arrangement. Both Punch King Fitness and the franchisee can agree to a different location for the arbitration or mediation. This could be beneficial if a neutral site is preferred or if both parties find another location more convenient. Additionally, the arbitrator or mediator has the authority to determine the location, which could be influenced by factors such as the location of evidence or witnesses.

It is also important to note that the FDD states that 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.