Where will arbitration or mediation take place for a Southern Steer franchise purchased in Washington?
Southern_Steer 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.
Source: Item 5 — and 7 of the FDD, Section 3.1 of the Franchise Agreement and Section 4.1 of the Multi-Unit Development Agreement are hereby amended to state that payment of the initial franchise fee and development fee will be deferred until We have satisfied Our pre-opening obligations, and You have commenced business operations. (FDD pages 168–290)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Southern Steer Franchise Disclosure Document, for franchises purchased 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.
This clause provides some flexibility for franchisees in Washington, as it does not automatically require them to travel to Florida, which is where Southern Steer's principal place of business is located. This can save on travel costs and time.
It is important to note that the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act may supersede the franchise agreement in certain areas, including termination and renewal rights. Franchisees should be aware of their rights under Washington law and consult with an attorney if they have any questions.