Does the Zoomin Groomin franchise agreement supersede any other inconsistent term of any document executed in connection with the franchise?
Zoomin_Groomin Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
No statement, questionnaire, or acknowledgment signed or agreed to by a franchisee in connection with the commencement of the franchise relationship shall have the effect of (i) waiving any claims under any applicable state franchise law, including fraud in the inducement, or (ii) disclaiming reliance on any statement made by any franchisor, franchise seller, or other person acting on behalf of the franchisor. This provision supersedes any other term of any document executed in connection with the franchise.
Source: Item 17 — g. of the Disclosure Document is modified to state that, in addition to the grounds for immediate termination specified in Item 17.h., the franchisor can terminate upon written notice and a 60 day opportunity to cure for a breach of the Franchise Agreement. (FDD pages 51–65)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Zoomin Groomin FDD, in certain states, specific provisions are in place to ensure that franchisees' rights are protected, and certain terms within the franchise agreement or related documents do not override these protections. For franchisees in Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, and New York, specific stipulations ensure that no statement, questionnaire, or acknowledgment signed by the franchisee can waive rights under applicable state franchise laws, including claims of fraud.
Specifically, these provisions ensure that franchisees cannot be forced to disclaim reliance on statements made by Zoomin Groomin or its representatives. This protection supersedes any other conflicting terms in any document related to the franchise agreement. This means that even if a document contains language that appears to waive these rights or disclaim reliance, the state law prevails, and the franchisee retains their legal protections.
This safeguard is particularly important for prospective franchisees as it ensures that they cannot inadvertently waive their rights through standard paperwork. It reinforces the importance of understanding the specific franchise laws in their state and how those laws protect their interests, regardless of what other documents might state. Zoomin Groomin franchisees should consult with a legal professional to fully understand their rights and obligations under the franchise agreement and applicable state laws.