For a Punch King Fitness franchise in Washington, can the arbitration site be determined by the arbitrator?

According to Punch King Fitness's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, for franchises purchased in Washington, the arbitration or mediation site will be in Washington state or a location mutually agreed upon at the time of arbitration or mediation. Alternatively, the arbitrator or mediator can determine the site at the time of arbitration or mediation.

This means that if a Punch King Fitness franchisee in Washington has a dispute with the franchisor that goes to arbitration or mediation, the location of these proceedings will either be in Washington, a place both parties agree on, or a location chosen by the arbitrator or mediator. This provides some flexibility in determining the location, but it also means that a franchisee could potentially be required to travel within Washington for the proceedings if the arbitrator or mediator chooses a location that is not convenient for them.

Additionally, the FDD 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. This offers an additional legal avenue for franchisees in Washington, allowing them to pursue legal action within the state under certain circumstances.