The Los Angeles Superior Court has decided a Quiznos franchisee in California can remain open in spite of efforts by the Denver-based sandwich giant to have it closed.
Quiznos had sought an injunction against Bob and Ratti Baber after terminating their franchise agreement. The couple alleges that Quiznos officials tried shutting down their restaurant in retaliation for a lawsuit they filed against the company and their efforts to organize other franchisees, according to their attorney, Fred Pardes.
A judge denied the injunction and rejected a request by Quiznos to require that the Babers participate in arbitration in Colorado.
Quiznos spokeswoman Bonnie Warschauer said the company would participate in arbitration in California. She declined to comment further.
Quiznos, which is privately held, has previously faced lawsuits from franchisees who allege that the company places stores too close together.
Courts in Denver and Phoenix have thrown out similar cases in recent months.
Staff writer Kristi Arellano can be reached at 303-820-1902 or karellano@denverpost.com.
