Franchisors: thinking about expanding into Canada? Better think twice.

Since 2000, the Dunkin’ Donuts franchisees and their franchisor have been doing battle in Quebec. In Bertico, Inc. v. Dunkin’ Brands Canada, originally filed on May 20, 2003,1 the essence of the franchisees’ claim was whether the franchisor had fulfilled its obligations to its franchisees—a simple issue, it would appear. However, that turned out not to be the case.