Buying a franchise in Jamaica—what key clauses should I insist on before I sign?

In Jamaica
Last Updated: Jan 19, 2026
I’m about to pay the franchise fee and sign the agreement for a food outlet in Kingston. The franchisor is asking for strict non-compete terms and a large termination fee. What clauses should I negotiate or have reviewed to protect me if sales are lower than projected?

Lawyer Answers

Vanguard Law

Vanguard Law

Jan 19, 2026
Congratulations on this venture!

Negotiating is heavily dependent on your specific Franchise Agreement's current terms and business/operational structure.

However here are some standard considerations below:

Low Sales Relief Mechanics: such as allowing royalties/marketing contributions to be reduced, deffered or even temporarily waived if monthly gross sales are lower for certain months than projected.

Exit Clauses: Negotiate the calculation of the termination fee, shouldn't be a penalty. You may even negotiate an assignment right if sales are low and you want to be able to sell.

Qualify the Non-Compete: such as geographic limits, branding limits and/or even a waiver due to low sales.

This is not legal advice but informational purposes only.
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