Where will arbitration or mediation take place for a Zoomin Groomin franchise purchased in Washington?
Zoomin_Groomin Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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- Site of Arbitration, Mediation, and/or Litigation.
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 9 — 01. Financial Statements and Exhibits. (FDD pages 68–156)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Zoomin Groomin FDD, if a franchisee purchases a franchise in Washington, the arbitration or mediation site will be in Washington. However, the location can be a place mutually agreed upon at the time of the arbitration or mediation. The location could also be determined by the arbitrator or mediator at the time of arbitration or mediation.
This addendum ensures that franchisees in Washington are not forced to travel to a distant location for dispute resolution, which could be a significant financial and logistical burden. The franchisee can agree to a different location if they choose, offering flexibility. The arbitrator or mediator has the power to determine the location at the time of arbitration or mediation.
This clause is specific to Washington due to the state's franchise investment protection laws. Many states have similar laws to protect franchisees, but the details can vary. Prospective Zoomin Groomin franchisees should carefully review the addenda specific to their state, if any, to understand their rights and obligations regarding dispute resolution and other legal matters.