Does the general release required for renewal, sale, or assignment/transfer of a Zoomin Groomin franchise apply to liability under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law?

According to Zoomin Groomin's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the general release required as a condition of renewal, sale, and/or assignment/transfer does not apply to any liability under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law. This means that if a Zoomin Groomin franchisee in Maryland renews, sells, or transfers their franchise, the general release they sign will not prevent them from pursuing claims related to violations of the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law. This protection is specifically carved out to ensure franchisees retain their rights under Maryland law.

This modification is significant for prospective Zoomin Groomin franchisees in Maryland because it ensures that they do not inadvertently waive their rights under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law when renewing, selling, or transferring their franchise. The Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law is designed to protect franchisees, and this provision prevents the general release from undermining those protections. This addendum reflects a commitment to compliance with Maryland franchise law and provides an additional layer of security for franchisees operating in that state.

It is important for prospective franchisees to understand the implications of this modification. While a general release is typically broad, this specific exception ensures that franchisees retain their ability to bring claims under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law. This could be relevant in situations where a franchisee believes they have been misled or treated unfairly in violation of Maryland franchise law. Franchisees should consult with an attorney to fully understand their rights and the implications of any release they are asked to sign.