In Washington, where will arbitration or mediation take place for a Zoomin Groomin franchise?
Zoomin_Groomin Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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.
In addition, if litigation is not precluded by the franchise agreement, a franchisee may bring an action or proceeding arising out of or in connection with the sale of franchises, or a violation of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, in Washington.
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, if a franchisee purchases a franchise in Washington, any arbitration or mediation will occur in Washington state. However, the specific location can be determined in one of three ways. First, the location can be a place mutually agreed upon by both parties at the time of the arbitration or mediation. Second, the arbitrator can determine the location at the time of arbitration. Third, the mediator can determine the location at the time of mediation.
This addendum modifies the franchise agreement to comply with Washington state law, which may supersede certain provisions in the standard franchise agreement. This ensures that franchisees in Washington have the right to arbitrate, mediate, or litigate within the state, providing a more accessible and potentially less costly venue than might otherwise be specified in the franchise agreement.
Additionally, if litigation is not precluded by the franchise agreement, a Zoomin Groomin franchisee may bring an action or proceeding arising out of or in connection with the sale of franchises, or a violation of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, in Washington.