Tragic Ending to Franchisee's Dreams
Over at Blue MauMau, there is a very sad story about Quiznos: A Tragic Ending to a Franchisee's Plight .
One franchisee complained that "Many Quiznos owners who are themselves honest and moral. These individuals surround themselves with people of the same character. They in turn are not exposed to the corrupt salespeople who prey on their naivety. Many of these individuals were verbally sold a line of B.S. Quiznos hides behind these verbal claims by pointing out the legalease in the UFOC. Bottom line is that many Quiznos owners gained an education out of buying into this system. They now realize the importance of getting it in writing.
We mistakenly assume that Quiznos corporate would do the morally right thing. They seem to be on relatively firm ground legally speaking but this does not make it right. One day, these individuals will answer to a higher power."
I don't know whether this is true because obviously most of the details are left out; but the franchisee is pointing out a real difficulty in for effective due diligence. The integration clause in a franchise contract will serve to negate all of the oral promises made to you or which you thought were made to you. These reasons, which you relied upon, will not form part of the contract.
The reasons you bought a franchise, for many, many people, will not be reflected in the franchise agreement and could even contain terms which would specifically negate your intentions.
It is important to review your reasons for a buying a franchise, distributorship, or some other investment with an highly qualified and specialized lawyer. He or she can review with you the relationship between: a) the promises you believe were made to you, and b) what is actually in the contract.
Know what you are buying before you enter into a long-term contract.
Technorati Tags: quiznos, legalase, franchisee, ufoc, naivety
