Franchisees of Edible Arrangements are asking a federal judge in Connecticut to halt the New Haven gift-products franchise’s alleged abusive practices that the franchisees claim are hurting their businesses.
The EA Independent Franchisee Associated filed a lawsuit Monday against Edible Arrangements and several affiliated companies. Â
“We want a fair shot at success and an open line of communication with the company about the decisions it makes that affect our business and our lives,” added Sherri Vertorano, a North Carolina franchisee and association member.
The complaint alleges that Edible Arrangements has altered the business arrangement with its franchisees over the last several years, to their detriment, in violation of its contractual obligations and general principles of fairness.
In addition, the complaint charges that Edible Arrangements has unfairly implemented several system-wide mandates, has enforced new mandates on a discriminatory basis and has failed to disclose necessary and required business information to its franchisees in violation of franchise disclosure rules and regulations. Â
Franchisees allege Edible Arrangements has rebuffed their efforts to talk about the issues.
Edible Arrangements issued a statement Tuesday that it was aware of the suit through media reports, but declined comment until it has seen the suit.
