In Minnesota, can Zoomin Groomin require a franchisee to assent to a general release?
Zoomin_Groomin Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
MINNESOTA ADDENDUM TO THE FRANCHISE AGREEMENT
- Minn.
Stat. §80C.21 and Minn.
Rule 2860.4400(J) prohibit the franchisor from requiring litigation to be conducted outside Minnesota, requiring waiver of a jury trial, or requiring the franchisee to consent to liquidated damages, termination penalties or judgment notes.
In addition, nothing in the Franchise Disclosure Document or agreements can abrogate or reduce (1) any of the franchisee's rights as provided for in Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 80C, or (2) franchisee's rights to any procedure, forum, or remedies provided for by the laws of the jurisdiction.
- With respect to franchises governed by Minnesota law, the franchisor will comply with Minn.
Stat.
Sec. 80C.14 Subds. 3, 4, and 5 which require (except in certain specified cases), that a franchisee be given 90 days' notice of termination (with 60 days to cure) and 180 days' notice for non-renewal of the franchise agreement and that consent to the transfer of the franchise will not be unreasonably withheld.
The franchisor will protect the franchisee's rights to use the trademarks, service marks, trade names, logotypes or other commercial symbols or indemnify the franchisee from any loss, costs or expenses arising out of any claim, suit or demand regarding the use of the name.
Minnesota considers it unfair to not protect the franchisee's right to use the trademarks.
Refer to Minnesota Statutes 80C.12, Subd. 1(g).
- Minnesota Rules 2860.4400(D) prohibits a franchisor from requiring a franchisee to assent to a general release.
Source: Item 9 — 01. Financial Statements and Exhibits. (FDD pages 68–156)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Zoomin Groomin's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Minnesota Rules prohibit Zoomin Groomin from requiring a franchisee to agree to a general release. This protection is explicitly stated in the Minnesota Addendum to the Franchise Agreement. This means that Zoomin Groomin franchisees in Minnesota cannot be forced to sign a document that broadly releases the company from all potential liabilities.
This provision is beneficial for prospective Zoomin Groomin franchisees in Minnesota as it protects their legal rights and prevents them from unknowingly waiving potential claims against the franchisor. It ensures that franchisees retain the ability to pursue legal action if they believe Zoomin Groomin has acted improperly or violated the terms of the franchise agreement. This addendum reflects Minnesota's specific regulations designed to protect franchisees.
It is important for potential franchisees to carefully review the Minnesota Addendum and understand their rights under Minnesota law. This addendum addresses several key areas, including litigation venues, jury trial waivers, liquidated damages, termination penalties, and consent to injunctive relief, all of which are designed to provide additional protection to franchisees operating in Minnesota.