What is the significance of RCW 19.100.180(2)(j) regarding Zoomin Groomin franchise agreements in Washington?
Zoomin_Groomin Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Provisions in franchise agreements or related agreements that permit the franchisor to repurchase the franchisee's business for any reason during the term of the franchise agreement without the franchisee's consent are unlawful pursuant to RCW 19.100.180(2)(j), unless the franchise is terminated for good cause.
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 Zoomin Groomin's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, RCW 19.100.180(2)(j) is significant for Washington franchisees because it addresses provisions that allow Zoomin Groomin to repurchase a franchisee's business. Under this Washington law, any provision in the franchise agreement that allows Zoomin Groomin to repurchase the franchisee's business at any time during the franchise term without the franchisee's consent is unlawful.
However, there is an exception: Zoomin Groomin can repurchase the franchise if the agreement is terminated for good cause. This means that Zoomin Groomin cannot arbitrarily decide to buy back a franchise during its term unless there is a legitimate reason for termination, protecting the franchisee's investment and business operations.
This provision ensures that Zoomin Groomin franchisees in Washington are protected from unfair buy-back provisions, preventing the franchisor from reclaiming the business without a valid reason. Prospective franchisees should understand the conditions under which Zoomin Groomin can terminate the agreement for good cause, as this would be the only scenario where a buy-back could occur without their consent.