Franchise Disputes

Franchise relationships depend on control — over standards, territory and brand. Disputes usually arise when the franchisor tightens that control, or when the franchisee concludes the fees no longer match the support received.

Wise Counsel advises franchisors and franchisees on disputes arising from franchise and master franchise arrangements in Vietnam, including termination and post-termination obligations.

What we help with

• Disputes over territory exclusivity and encroachment by the franchisor or other franchisees
• Claims over franchise fees, royalties and required purchases from designated suppliers
• Disputes over brand standards, audits and alleged breaches of the operations manual
• Termination, non-renewal and the consequences for the franchisee's investment
• Post-termination obligations — de-branding, non-compete and customer lists
• Disputes over franchise registration and disclosure obligations under Vietnamese law
• Claims for misrepresentation in pre-contractual projections and financial forecasts
• Trademark and know-how misuse by former franchisees
• Representation before Vietnamese courts and arbitral tribunals

Franchise disputes are rarely about one breach; they are about a relationship that has stopped working. We advise on whether to repair it or exit it cleanly.