SUSAN K. GAUVEY, United States Magistrate Judge.
Now pending before this Court is plaintiff's motion for summary judgment as to Counts II and III of the First Amended Complaint and Count XII of defendant's Counterclaim. (ECF No. 77). Defendant has submitted a cross motion for summary judgment as to Count III of the First Amended Complaint. (ECF No. 81). The Court held a hearing on January 10, 2013 and invited, and the parties submitted, additional materials. (ECF Nos. 104 and 105). The Court acknowledges the difficulty of the legal issues here, especially in the absence of controlling Maryland law and appreciates the excellent and helpful briefing and argument on the motions.
Summary judgment under Fed.R.Civ.P. 56 is appropriate when "there is no genuine dispute as to any material fact and the movant is entitled to judgment as a matter of law." Fed.R.Civ.P. 56(a). A genuine dispute remains "if the evidence is such that a reasonable jury could return a verdict for the nonmoving party." Anderson v. Liberty Lobby, Inc., 477 U.S. 242, 248, 106 S.Ct. 2505, 91 L.Ed.2d 202 (1986). "Material" facts are those that might affect the outcome of the case under the governing law. Id. The party moving for summary judgment has the burden of demonstrating the absence of any genuine issue of material fact. Fed.R.Civ.P. 56(a); Pulliam Inv. Co. v. Cameo Props., 810 F.2d 1282, 1286 (4th Cir.1987).
When considering a motion for summary judgment, the court views all facts and makes all reasonable inferences in the light most favorable to the non-moving party. Matsushita Elec. Indus. Co. v. Zenith Radio Corp., 475 U.S. 574, 587, 106 S.Ct. 1348, 89 L.Ed.2d 538 (1986). The non-moving party must show that specific, material facts exist to create a genuine, triable issue. Id.; see also Celotex Corp. v. Catrett, 477 U.S. 317, 324, 106 S.Ct. 2548, 91 L.Ed.2d 265 (1986). On those issues for which the non-moving party has the burden of proof, it is his or her responsibility to oppose the motion for summary judgment with affidavits or other admissible evidence specified in the rule. Fed. R.Civ.P. 56(c); Mitchell v. Data Gen. Corp., 12 F.3d 1310, 1315-16 (4th Cir. 1993). If a party fails to make a showing sufficient to establish the existence of an essential element on which that party will bear the burden of proof at trial, summary judgment is proper. Celotex, 477 U.S. at 322-23, 106 S.Ct. 2548.
The role of the Court at the summary judgment stage is not to "weigh the evidence and determine the truth of the matter," but rather to determine whether "there are any genuine factual issues that can properly be resolved only by a finder of fact because they may be resolved in favor of either party." Anderson v. Liberty Lobby, 477 U.S. 242, 249-50, 106 S.Ct. 2505, 91 L.Ed.2d 202 (1986). The issue is "whether the evidence presents a sufficient disagreement to require submission to a jury or whether it is so one-sided that one party must prevail as a matter of law." Anderson, 477 U.S. at 251-52, 106 S.Ct. 2505.
The fact that the parties file cross-motions for summary judgment does not generally relieve the Court of its obligation to determine whether there are disputes as to material fact which prevent entry of judgment as a matter of law. Bryant v. Better Bus. Bureau of Greater Maryland, Inc., 923 F.Supp. 720, 729 (D.Md.1996) ("[C]ross-motions for summary judgment do not automatically empower the court to dispense with the determination of whether questions of material fact exist.") (quoting Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians v. Voigt, 700 F.2d 341, 349 (7th Cir.), cert. denied, 464 U.S. 805, 104 S.Ct. 53, 78 L.Ed.2d 72 (1983)). When cross-motions for summary judgment demonstrate a basic agreement, however, concerning what legal theories and material facts are dispositive, they may be probative of the lack of a factual dispute. Shook v. United States, 713 F.2d 662, 665 (11th Cir.1983).
Peterbilt Motors Company ("Peterbilt") is a manufacturer of heavy and medium-duty trucks and auto parts. (ECF No. 1, ¶ 3). Elliot Wilson Capitol Trucks LLC
This dispute arises from EWCT's attempt to transfer its Peterbilt franchise to Norris Automotive Group ("Norris") in 2011. Both parties agree that the primary issue is the resolution of cross motions for summary judgment as to Count III of Peterbilt's First Amended Complaint. (ECF No. 77-1, 5; ECF No. 81-1, 4). Count III asks for declaratory relief as to whether Peterbilt properly executed its right of first refusal ("ROFR") for the Norris transfer on February 1, 2012. (ECF No. 44, ¶¶ 79-85).
A secondary issue is resolution of the propriety of Peterbilt's initial refusal to approve the Norris transfer in August of 2011. Both Count II of Peterbilt's complaint (Id., ¶¶ 68-78), and Count XII of Wilson's counter-claim (ECF No. 39, ¶¶ 139-142), request declaratory relief as to whether Peterbilt's denial of EWCT's proposed transfer in is in accordance with Maryland law. Peterbilt, but not EWCT, moves for summary judgment on these counts.
Each party maintains its right to judgment as a matter of law; neither party has identified any disputes as to material fact requiring an evidentiary hearing.
On February 1, 2012, Peterbilt purported to exercise its contractual right of first refusal for EWCT's proposed transfer of its Peterbilt franchise to Norris. (ECF No. 77-31, 3). Peterbilt's right of first refusal is found in Addendum E to the parties' Dealer Agreement. (ECF No. 77-3, 2). Addendum E provides that Peterbilt must advise EWCT of its intent to exercise its ROFR within 30 days of receiving EWCT's written request for approval of a sale to a bona fide buyer. (Id.). The sale agreement must be a "bona fide arms length [sic] agreement," and the Addendum specifies that the "purchase price and other terms of sale shall be those set forth in such agreement and any related documents." (Id.).
The crux of the issue in Count III is the sufficiency of EWCT's notice to Peterbilt. This dispute turns on a series of exchanges of information in 2011 and early 2012. It is undisputed between the parties that Peterbilt initially received notice of the proposed Norris transaction in an August 2011 letter from EWCT, (ECF No. 77-1, 11; ECF No. 77-24, 2-3). Peterbilt again received notice, in more detail, by letter in October 2011. (ECF No. 77-1, 14; ECF No. 77-26). It is similarly undisputed that Peterbilt received some additional information regarding the deal from EWCT in November and December 2011. (ECF No. 81-15, 2; ECF No. 81-7, 3).
What is in dispute is whether these notifications were sufficient under both Addendum E and applicable case law to trigger Peterbilt's option to purchase and start Addendum E's 30-day clock. If any of the communications made in 2011, either alone or in combination, served as sufficient notice of the deal and triggered the 30-day clock, the purported ROFR exercise on February 1 2012 was untimely. If, however, these communications did not constitute sufficient notice of the transaction, or
As an initial matter, the Court must determine what EWCT's notice obligations are under the Franchise Agreement. Addendum E of the Franchise Agreement describes the process necessary to exercise the right. (ECF No. 77-3). The contract language is unambiguous and clear on its face; neither party argues otherwise.
Paragraph four of Addendum E specifies the party's rights and obligations as to the ROFR. It provides that when the dealer has entered into a "bona fide arms length [sic] written agreement governing such a transfer or sale," Peterbilt will have the right of first refusal. It specifies that the "purchase price and other terms of sale shall be those set forth in such agreement and any related materials." Id. If Peterbilt requires additional information, it may request that EWCT provide "any and all supporting documents relating to the transfer or sale which Peterbilt may require to assess the bona fides of the agreement." (Id.). A "[r]efusal to provide such documentation or to state that no such documentation exists shall create the presumption that the buy/sell agreement is not a bona fide agreement." Id.
Accordingly, under Addendum E, EWCT is obligated to provide to Peterbilt a bona fide, arms-length, written buy/sell agreement, which contains the purchase price and "other terms of the sale." EWCT is also obligated to provide, at Peterbilt's request, supporting documentation of the offer.
A right of first refusal gives the holder a contractual right that the property owner will give him or her the option to purchase, or refuse to do so, before selling to a third party. 19A M.L.E. Sales of Realty § 5. A right of first refusal is distinct from an option: an option can compel a sale by the unwilling owner, whereas a right holder only has the right to receive an offer to buy. 3-11 Corbin on Contracts § 11.3. A right of first refusal "ripens" into an option, however, once the holder of such right is notified by the property owner of the terms of a third-party offer to purchase the property. Id. Once this option is triggered, it must be exercised within the contractual time period specified or, if the contract is silent, in a reasonable time. USEMCO, Inc. v. Marbro Co., Inc., 60 Md.App. 351, 483 A.2d 88, 95 (1984).
What notice is necessary to trigger the right is the central question before the Court. Neither party has cited a published Maryland decision articulating the test to determine when an offer contains sufficient information to trigger the owner's obligation to respond.
Notice may be reasonable even if some of the terms are ambiguous or uncertain in the eyes of the right holder. In Koch Industries, Inc. v. Sun Co., 918 F.2d 1203, 1212 (5th Cir.1990), a frequently cited opinion on the issue, the Fifth Circuit, applying Texas law, found that where an initial offer is reasonable, but does not, in the opinion of the owner, contain sufficiently clear information to guide a decision whether to exercise the right, the owner must affirmatively seek information that will clarify the offer. There, plaintiff argued that the notice received did not reveal the "price in fact" of the deal or the specific terms of the sale. Id. at 1213. As a result, plaintiff maintained that they did not have sufficient information to make an informed choice to accept or reject the offer. Id.
The Court disagreed, finding that the Agreement of Sale sent to plaintiff "made a reasonable disclosure of the terms of the... deal," and included an unambiguous purchase price. Id. While some ancillary pricing information was arguably unclear, the court noted that "because Koch did not undertake a reasonable investigation of the terms that it now alleges were unclear, Koch cannot complain that it lacked sufficient information to make an informed choice" about whether to accept the offer. Id. The Koch Court required more than a response objecting to the deal on legal grounds: plaintiff's duty "required an actual request for information." Id. (emphasis in original).
Thus, while there is no binding precedent on this issue in Maryland, after undertaking a review of both Addendum E and the relevant case law from other states, the Court finds that the first question is whether Peterbilt received from EWCT a bonafide, arms-length buy/sell agreement governing the essential terms of the Norris transaction, with sufficient detail to allow Peterbilt to make an informed decision as to whether to exercise its ROFR. A secondary inquiry must, as in Koch, examine any subsequent inquiries or investigations by Peterbilt and EWCT's response thereto.
On October 5, 2011, EWCT's counsel sent Peterbilt an email enclosing a binding "Letter Agreement" detailing the terms of a deal between EWCT and Norris for EWCT's Peterbilt franchise. (ECF No. 81-1, 8). The proposal followed an earlier, less detailed proposal sent to and rejected by Peterbilt in August.
The Letter Agreement is a 5-page, 17-paragraph document. The Agreement — referred to as both a "Letter Agreement" and a "Letter of Intent" in the document — is, by its terms, a "legally binding and enforceable agreement of the parties hereto." (ECF No. 81-4, 6). The Agreement
The Agreement spells out the terms of an acquisition in which the Peterbilt franchise will be controlled by a new, Norrisowned entity, DC Fleet Service. (Id.). Under the deal, Norris Capitol Holdings would acquire a controlling 85% interest in the Peterbilt dealership. (Id.). The relevant terms of the Agreement are as follows:
The Agreement is signed by both Andrew Franklin and George Wilson.
Peterbilt replied to the October Letter Agreement on November 3, 2011. (ECF No. 77-28). The reply detailed four reasons why the transaction described was deficient and did not trigger the 30-day clock under Addendum E of the Dealer Agreement. (Id. at 2).
First, Peterbilt argued that the transaction "fails to adequately set forth several material terms." (Id.). Specifically, Peterbilt noted that they were unable to "discern the scope of the deal and what assets are intended to be transferred." (Id.). Peterbilt maintained that because they were uncertain what Peterbilt assets were already transferred in EWCT's March deal with Norris, the deficiency was not cured "by a general statement that all `assets' of the Peterbilt dealership shall be contributed to DC Fleet." (Id. at 3). Specifically, Peterbilt noted that the earlier deal purported to transfer EWCT's Peterbilt parts inventory to Norris, leaving uncertain whether these parts would be included in the proposed deal. (Id. at 2). In addition, Peterbilt contends that the letter "fails to clearly state the most material of all terms the proposed `selling price.'" (Id. at 4). While acknowledging that the Agreement states that $25,000 will be paid at closing, Peterbilt argues that "[t]he remainder of the consideration is wholly dependent upon the performance of DC Fleet, without any specificity as to any particular amount being paid at any time." (Id.).
Second, Peterbilt noted that the transaction as proposed "would not be in compliance with Peterbilt's standard Dealer Sales and Service Agreement." (Id. at 3). Peterbilt's standard Dealer Agreement provides that the dealer hold exclusive responsibility for maintaining sufficient facilities, capital, assets, equipment, systems, and personnel at the dealership. The letter states that under the proposed transaction "many material functions, such as the hiring of employees, the implementation and management of accounting systems and financial matters ... will not be performed by the proposed new dealer, DC Fleet," but instead be implemented through Capitol Fleet or other Norris entities. (Id.). Peterbilt notes that it "cannot approve a dealership where so many of the material functions ... are subject to the discretion and whim of other parties that are not bound to Peterbilt in any way." (Id.).
Third, Peterbilt contended that the transaction is deficient because "it appears that DC Fleet will not have sufficient financial resources and capital to be approved as a new Peterbilt dealer." (Id.). Peterbilt noted that the new deal would be capitalized by a "$500,000.00 contribution, EWCT's inventory of new Peterbilt vehicles (likely subject to substantial floor plan liabilities), and unspecified series of other operating assets." (Id.). The letter argued that "such [an] amount is insufficient to capitalize a new Peterbilt dealership." (Id. at 4).
Finally, Peterbilt argued that the "transaction ... is, in actuality, illusory."
On November 11, 2011, Wilson responded to Peterbilt's November 3 letter. (ECF No. 81-7). His stated intent was to "determine if there is a way I can address to your satisfaction the bulk of the objections you raise." (Id.). As to Peterbilt's objections regarding assets to be transferred, Wilson answered that "the binding October LOI is very specific — we would be conveying all of Capitol Trucks' assets to Norris." (Id. at 3). He noted that in combination with the earlier Ford transaction, this would place Norris in the same position as EWCT was in prior to the March transaction: "this would effectively amount to all of the assets that Capitol trucks had when it owned the Ford franchise." (Id.). Wilson specified that Peterbilt parts were not included in the prior transaction with Norris, and therefore would be a part of the deal proposed, and noted that "your attorneys are aware of this."
On December 23, 2011, Paul Trinkoff for Peterbilt wrote to EWCT's counsel in an "attempt to clarify certain information pertaining to the current dispute." (ECF No. 81-15). Mr. Trinkoff noted that in a November conversation with Mr. Wender, EWCT's counsel, he was informed that the rent for the Landover dealership would be higher than the $20,000 set out in the lease attached to the October Letter; he indicates that a November 25 letter suggested the rental would be $27,000. Id. He asks for confirmation of this rental amount and to be advised "of any other changes in the terms outlined in the October 4, 2011, letter." Id. EWCT's counsel replied on December 28, attaching a lease amendment confirming an additional $7,000 in rent for the facility. (ECF No. 81-16).
On January 6, 2012, Mike Conroy of Peterbilt wrote to John Arscott, who was interested in purchasing the EWCT franchise, attaching a brief summary of the proposed deal. (ECF No. 81-14). The summary states that the deal includes "`Peterbilt sales and service agreement and all the assets of the Peterbilt dealership.' No further specification." (Id. at 2). The summary notes that "[t]he letter is silent on, and therefore does not provide that, Norris [sic] assuming any liabilities or debt." (Id. at 3).
The deposition of Elliot Wilson was held on January 9, 2012. (ECF No. 77-10). Wilson was asked what specific assets were to be transferred in the transaction. (Id. at 6). He replied that the Peterbilt tools, the Peterbilt accessories, parts bins, fixtures, and new truck inventory would all be included in the deal. (Id.). He stated that while the October letter was silent on liabilities, he assumed that the debt associated with the inventory would also be
In his deposition on the 11th of January, Andrew Franklin reiterated that the assets to be transferred included Peterbilt parts, special tools, and new trucks. (ECF No. 77-30, 5). He confirmed that the initial deal between EWCT and Franklin did not include Peterbilt parts. (Id.). He confirmed the rent for the facility increased to $27,000. (Id. at 7). Franklin acknowledged that the liabilities were not specified in the October Agreement, but stated that it was his understanding "that the liabilities associated with the assets would ... come over with them." (Id. at 6).
Neither side disputes the admissibility of any of the above factual assertions. The above-referenced communications and depositions are all part of the record. Neither side contends that there are any outstanding disputes of material fact necessary for resolution at trial. They instead ask that the Court resolve the issue of the sufficiency of the notice as a matter of law. (ECF No. 77-1, 5; ECF No. 81-1, 3).
Peterbilt's primary argument is essentially the same as the first point made in its November response: the "October Letter omitted several material terms and, therefore, did not adequately apprise Peterbilt of the terms and conditions of the proposed transaction." (ECF No. 77-1, 23).
In addition, Peterbilt argues that subsequent to its receipt of the October letter, it "learned and/or confirmed" that the proposed transaction included several additional
Peterbilt contends that it became aware of these terms primarily through depositions with George Wilson on January 9, and Andrew Franklin on January 11. (ECF No. 77-1, 17). As such, Peterbilt argues that the October Agreement was incomplete and insufficient to trigger the 30-day clock under Addendum E. Peterbilt still maintains, however, that even despite its receipt of this information and its subsequent exercise of the ROFR in February 2012, it still has not received sufficient information to constitute reasonable notice under Addendum E or relevant case-law. (ECF No. 86, 19).
In reply, EWCT first takes the position that Peterbilt's ROFR exercise on February 1, 2012, undercuts its assertion that is has never received sufficient information to trigger the 30-day window under Addendum E. "The purported ROFR exercise is ... compelling proof," EWCT argues, "that, at least as of February 1, 2012, Peterbilt possessed information sufficient for [it] to make a reasoned choice." (ECF No. 98, 9).
EWCT further contends that all of the terms Peterbilt claims were missing from the October Agreement "were well known and/or readily available to Peterbilt since at least November." (ECF No. 81-1, 18). As such, EWCT disputes Peterbilt's contention that early January depositions revealed new information regarding the exclusion of parts from the March deal and changes to the lease agreement, and argues that at the latest, the ROFR window began in November: "[t]here was no vital information suddenly gleaned in January, or even December, that somehow triggered for the first time the thirty-day clock on the ROFR." (ECF No. 81-1, 28).
The key date in this dispute is January 2, 2012, thirty-one days prior to Peterbilt's February 1 exercise of its ROFR. If, as of January 2, Peterbilt was in possession of the essential terms of the Norris agreement, its exercise on February 1 was outside the 30-day contractual window and therefore untimely. If Peterbilt was not given sufficient notice by that date, however, its exercise was timely under Addendum E.
As of January 2, 2012, Peterbilt undisputedly had the following information, included in the October Letter, in its possession: (1) the identity of the buyer; (2) terms of payment; and (3) the operating structure of DC Fleet (the new entity), including details regarding staffing, administration, and management structure. (ECF No. 81-14). The letter also gave notice that "all assets," including the Peterbilt sales and service agreement, would be transferred to DC Fleet under the agreement. (Id.). Further, as detailed supra, in two subsequent communications from EWCT and its attorneys in November Peterbilt was made aware that Peterbilt parts were part of the assets included in the deal. They were also told in both November and December that the lease price would be $27,000, rather than the $20,000 initially stated.
The Court finds, at a minimum, this to be sufficient notice under Addendum E to trigger Peterbilt's duty of inquiry. The October letter, supplemented by later communications,
Peterbilt has repeatedly argued, both at the hearing on its motion and in subsequent supplemental briefing, that the October Letter Agreement was not in accordance with industry custom and practice. (ECF No. 105, 3). Peterbilt notes that the October Agreement was not a "typical" buy/sell agreement under industry standards. (Id.). Peterbilt suggests it was entitled to a "fully-negotiated, definitive written buy/sell or asset purchase agreement, which is not subject to further negotiation and describes in detail the terms and conditions of the proposed transaction in its entirety." (Id.).
The Court agrees that Peterbilt did not receive a model or detailed buy/sell agreement. Peterbilt undoubtedly would have preferred to receive a clearer and more detailed description of the terms of the deal. The question here is not, however, whether the notice was perfect. It is whether the notice was sufficient. The Court declines to read additional terms into Addendum E that mandate that the notice received be perfectly consistent with industry standards as Peterbilt posits them or represent a finalized agreement ready for execution; Peterbilt could have contracted for this right and did not. In the Kia case relied on by Peterbilt the agreement included a clause mandating "receipt of all data and documentation customarily required by it to evaluate a proposed Ownership Change." Kia, Md. Ct. Spec. App., Case No. 900, Sept. Term 2005 (Oct. 10, 2006). Such a clause is conspicuously absent here. Addendum E simply requires that the agreement contain the "purchase price and other terms of sale." Indeed, the last two sentences of Addendum E provide that Peterbilt may "request... any and all supporting documents relating to the transfer." The clause explicitly considers the possibility that an initial offer may lack certain ancillary documents, and puts on Peterbilt the onus to request further documentation.
Applicable case law supports this view of Addendum E. Koch and its progeny do not require complete notice consistent with industry standards; the standard is instead whether the right holder received sufficient notice of the terms so as to allow it to make a considered choice. If so, the burden shifts to the right holder to make reasonable efforts to clarify the deal. See Roeland, 214 P.3d at 346 (finding that a Memorandum of Understanding, that was a "framework for entering binding agreements in the future," was reasonable notice sufficient to trigger duty to investigate).
The only terms Peterbilt was arguably made aware of explicitly for the first time in January 2012 were those relating to liabilities. These include floor plan liabilities associated with new trucks; Peterbilt parts payable; and a loan on the parts with Sun Trust Bank. It is undisputed that the October Letter Agreement did not specifically address these liabilities. However, as to the floor plan liabilities for the new trucks, Peterbilt viewed it as "likely" that the truck inventory asset would be subject to the corresponding debt. In its November reply, Peterbilt noted that the new company would be capitalized by "EWCT's inventory of new Peterbilt vehicles (likely subject to substantial floor plan liabilities)." (ECF No. 77-28, 3). Moreover, Peterbilt had every reason to inquire as to the status of the liabilities. While these terms are undoubtedly important, the Court finds that the ambiguity as to liabilities in the October letter is not fatal to EWCT's position.
First, it would be unconventional for such a deal to exclude, absent express indication, liabilities associated with the assets transferred. See Byron F. Egan, Asset Acquisitions: Assuming and Avoiding Liabilities 116 PENN ST. L. REV. 913, 954 ("In any transaction in which a buyer is acquiring an ongoing business, the buyer is likely to be assuming certain of the seller's liabilities, especially obligations incurred by seller in the ordinary course of seller's business."). Although the October Letter is not explicit as to these liabilities, their inclusion was not a radical departure from a common-sense understanding of the terms of the October Letter Agreement, nor more importantly from Peterbilt's understanding on how liabilities were to be treated in the deal. (ECF No. 77-28, 3).
The Stoetzer Affidavit submitted by Peterbilt attempts to present a different point of view, stating generally that "[t]he mere transfer of assets by themselves does not imply the transfer or assumption of associated debt." (ECF No. 105, 2, ¶ 24). While it is hard to quarrel with such a general statement, it is equally hard to give it decisive credence on this issue. Viewed most favorably to Peterbilt, that is, that there are different ways that buy-sell agreements in the automobile franchise industry deal with liabilities associated with transferred assets, Peterbilt did not attempt to confirm its belief that floor plan liabilities would follow the truck inventory or attempt to clarify whether liabilities (including the debt owed to Peterbilt itself) would follow the parts inventory. Of course, Peterbilt knew EWCT's liabilities to it on the parts inventory. Moreover, given that SunTrust had made a loan on some of the parts inventory, it is hard to imagine that those liabilities would not likewise almost necessarily follow the asset. The Court agrees that it was not certain, based on the October Letter, that liabilities would follow assets, and the amount of all the liabilities. While the assumption of liabilities with the transfer of assets was reasonably foreseeable, the total amount of debt that Norris would
The case law on this point, however, is clear: it is Peterbilt's responsibility to clarify any confusion regarding these uncertain terms in reasonable time. See Koch, 918 F.2d at 1212.
It is important to note that there is no evidence in the record to suggest the lack of detail regarding liabilities in the October letter was due to bad faith or an intentional effort to conceal information from Peterbilt. Peterbilt received the entire agreement as it then stood; nothing was concealed or intentionally withheld. Even Gyurkey, upon which Peterbilt heavily relies, holds only that the right holder "is entitled to no lesser means of receiving the offer than is provided to the seller by the third party offeror." Gyurkey, 651 P.2d at 931. That is exactly what Peterbilt received. This is not a case, as in Gyurkey, where a brief description of a written offer was orally relayed to the right holder. Nothing was concealed or misrepresented in the October Letter.
The Court acknowledges that this interchange was occurring in "the fog of war [of litigation]." On July 21, 2011, Peterbilt commenced the instant litigation against EWCT for breach of contract (ECF No. 1). On August 25, 2011, Peterbilt had given notice of the termination of EWCT's franchise, which EWCT contested. (ECF No. 77-25, 3). However, these disputes did not alter the parties' rights under the agreement. Under both Addendum E and relevant case law, Peterbilt was required
The Court finds that by January 2, 2012, Peterbilt was either aware of the essential terms of EWCT transaction with Franklin or failed through diligent inquiry to attempt to clarify the essential terms. By this date a reasonable and sufficient time to clarify any confusion regarding these terms had elapsed, such that Peterbilt cannot now complain that it lacked sufficient information to make an informed choice whether to accept or reject. No new information was discovered in January that could not have been obtained or confirmed through an earlier effort to clarify the terms. Accordingly, the Court finds that Peterbilt's purported exercise of its ROFR was untimely and is invalid as a matter of law.
In its motion, Peterbilt also asks the Court to rule on Count II of its complaint, which requests a judgment declaring that Peterbilt's initial refusal to consent to EWCT's transfer of its Peterbilt franchise to Norris was reasonable under the circumstances. (ECF No. 77-1, 4-5; ECF No. 44, ¶¶ 68-78). Peterbilt further requests summary judgment as to Count XII of EWCT's counterclaim, which asks that the court "issue a declaratory ruling that Peterbilt is obligated to approve EWCT's proposed transfer of its Peterbilt dealership." (ECF No. 39, ¶ 142).
Peterbilt requested that this issue be addressed even if the Court rules in EWCT's favor on the ROFR issue: "[e]ven if the exercise of the ROFR is not ultimately sustained, Peterbilt's refusal to consent to EWCT's request to transfer its Peterbilt franchise to Norris was nevertheless reasonable under the circumstances." (ECF No. 77-1, 2). For its part, EWCT only moves for summary judgment as to the ROFR issue, and argues, without analysis, that a finding that the ROFR exercise was untimely "compels the denial of Peterbilt's Motion as to Count II of the FAC and Count XII of the Counterclaim." (ECF No. 81-1, 4). Except for a reference to the negligible due diligence that Peterbilt did of Norris, EWCT does not otherwise address the unreasonableness of Peterbilt's denial of approval of the Norris transfer in August.
The Court disagrees that its ruling on the ROFR issue compels ruling against Peterbilt on Count II of the First Amended Complaint or Count XII of EWCT's Counterclaim. As Peterbilt argues, it is possible that while Peterbilt did not properly exercise its ROFR in February 2012, it was within its rights when it initially chose to reject the proposed transaction in August 2011. The Court agrees that these are separate issues, and must be addressed separately.
Section 15-211 of Maryland's Transportation Code regulates the sale, assignment, or transfer of an automobile dealership or franchise. Md.Code Ann., Transp. § 15-211. Section 15-211, like similar statutes in several other states, strikes a balance between the interest of the franchisor in exerting some control over its franchise network, and the interest of the franchisee in conducting its business freely and without fear of unreasonable manufacturer interference. Crivelli v. GMC, 215 F.3d 386, 390 (3d Cir.2000) (noting that these statutes "protect the franchisee who has invested substantial capital in the franchise and is therefore vulnerable to a manufacturer who may take advantage of this firm-specific investment."). Section 15-211(d)(1) protects the former interest, providing that a dealer "may not sell, assign,
These provisions are central to this dispute. Count XII of EWCT's counterclaim asks for a declaratory judgment under § 15-211(k)
The Court has found no published Maryland case interpreting the section. Several other federal courts, however, have interpreted similar statutes within their jurisdictions. The Third Circuit interpreted a similar Pennsylvania statute as preventing "a manufacturer from arbitrarily refusing consent to a transfer" and "obstinate and unjustifiable blocking of sales." Rosado v. Ford Motor Co., 337 F.3d 291, 295 (3d Cir.2003). A California Bankruptcy court found that a similar statute in California required a transfer to be "supported by substantial evidence showing that the proposed assignee is materially deficient with respect to one or more appropriate, performance-related criteria." In re Van Ness Auto Plaza, 120 B.R. 545, 549 (Bankr.N.D.Cal.1990). The Supreme Court of Massachusetts found that where a manufacturer had "legitimate and reasonable" concerns regarding a transferee's unauthorized use of its trademark, it was not unreasonable to reject a proposed transfer. Bishay v. Foreign Motors, Inc., 416 Mass. 1, 616 N.E.2d 96, 101 (1993).
While there is no binding case law in Maryland on the issue, the Court finds that 15-211(e) requires that the rejection of a prospective transfer be grounded on a reasonable, business-related concern regarding the transferee's ability to effectively operate the franchise. An unfounded, arbitrary, or vindictive refusal is violative of the statute.
In March 2011, EWCT entered into an agreement with Norris to transfer its Ford
The agreement specifically excluded Peterbilt new truck inventory and signage, but included, by its terms, Peterbilt parts. (Id.). Capitol Fleet took over the hiring or firing of existing EWCT employees, and reserved the right to review and modify pay plans. (Id., 16; ECF No. 77-15).
In his January 2012 deposition, Wilson stated that he initially told Mr. Conroy of Peterbilt "what was going on" in regards to the transaction on May 10, 2011, two months after the deal was made. (ECF No. 77-10, 15). While Mr. Conroy asked for all of the written agreements relating to the Ford transaction, Wilson did not give him the signed contribution agreement or operating agreement at that time. (Id. at 16). He stated at the deposition that he did not hand the documents over because the deal had not yet closed. (Id.). Peterbilt did not receive these documents until August 18, 2011 when Wilson's attorney sent Peterbilt's counsel an email attaching the Contribution Agreement for the Ford acquisition. (ECF No. 77-11). The operating agreement was sent on August 24, 2011. (ECF No. 77-13).
Discussions between Wilson and Franklin regarding the potential sale of EWCT's Peterbilt franchise continued through the summer. A draft letter of intent ("LOI") was circulated among Franklin, Wilson and their respective counsel on June 23rd. (ECF No. 77-16). Negotiations between the parties continued through July and August 2011. A July 15 draft LOI documents a proposed deal similar to that proposed in the October letter at issue supra. (ECF No. 77-17). Negotiations continued through August as the parties attempted finalize a letter of intent. (ECF No. 77-19, 2).
By late July, Peterbilt had grown increasingly concerned about Norris' involvement in the operation of the Peterbilt dealership. On July 21, 2011, Peterbilt commenced the instant action against EWCT for breach of contract. (ECF No. 1). Simultaneously, Peterbilt filed a separate suit against Norris, Capitol Fleet, and Franklin for trademark infringement, tortious interference with contractual relations, and unfair competition. (ECF No. 44, ¶ 39). The concerns driving the EWCT lawsuit were detailed in a memorandum of discussion points that Peterbilt maintains was given to Alan Hoff on or about August 18, 2011.
The memorandum expresses alarm regarding "systemic changes to the ownership, management and operating structure" of the Landover Dealership. (ECF No. 77-23, 2). Specifically, the memorandum notes concerns regarding the replacement of Peterbilt personnel with Norris employees. (Id.). Peterbilt believed these employees had access to confidential Peterbilt data and were performing work on Peterbilt trucks in violation of the Dealer Agreement and state law. (Id. at 4). As a result of these beliefs, Peterbilt argued that it "has no reason to trust that the Norris Group will act in the responsible
Against this backdrop, on August 23, 2011, EWCT sent a letter to Peterbilt giving "advance notice of a potential transfer" of the Peterbilt franchise to Norris. (ECF No. 77-24). The letter outlined the terms of a proposed deal. (Id.). The transfer was rejected. In an August 24 reply, Peterbilt stated that EWCT's letter did not describe a final offer, as negotiations between EWCT and Norris were ongoing. Peterbilt maintained that the Ford agreement in March represented a change in ownership and/or dealer principal in violation of the dealer agreement. (ECF No. 77-25, 3). Peterbilt stated that it did not "intend to allow Norris and its employees and managers to act as an unauthorized Peterbilt dealer." (Id.). Peterbilt terminated EWCT's franchise with 15 day's notice. (Id. at 4).
ECWT has not challenged the admissibility of the above facts, nor provided any controverting evidence. Neither has it argued that these are issues that must be decided at trial. Accordingly, based on the underlying, unrebutted evidence, the Court finds as a matter of law that Peterbilt's refusal to consent to ECWT's transfer of its franchise was reasonable under the circumstances. See Count II of the First Amended Complaint. The Court further finds that Peterbilt was not obligated to approve ECWT's proposed transfer of its Peterbilt dealership. See Count XII of ECWT's Counterclaim.
EWCT does not directly dispute any of the evidence on the record regarding their communications with Peterbilt as to the March deal. Without specification, EWCT simply declares that the "record in this case is not consistent" with Peterbilt's assertions regarding EWCT's ceding of control of aspects the Peterbilt dealership to Norris. (ECF No. 98, 12). Wilson does not controvert the evidence submitted regarding Norris' control over EWCT employees, or regarding Norris' staff's access to Peterbilt computer systems. (ECF No. 77-7, 16; ECF No. 77-15). Further, while EWCT asserts that there was "no reasonable basis upon which Norris could have been disapproved" (ECF No. 81-1, 30), EWCT makes no evidentiary attempt to cast any doubt on the reasonableness or legitimacy of Peterbilt's alarm over the alleged changes to the management structure and operation of the EWCT Landover Franchise.
Instead, EWCT argues that Peterbilt unreasonably withheld consent to the transfer, as evidenced by its lack of any meaningful "due diligence" of Norris. EWCT charges that Peterbilt did "no diligence on Norris," other than a perfunctory Google search before rejecting the deal outright. (ECF No. 81-1, 29). Michael Conroy of Peterbilt did testify on deposition that he had met Norris but in terms of further investigation, he had simply googled him. (ECF No. 81-11, 4).
In response, Peterbilt does not controvert the minimal diligence EWCT posits, but contends that little diligence was required on Norris, as they were already in possession of sufficient information to reasonably reject the transfer at the time of receipt. (ECF No. 86, 31). Peterbilt argues that at the time it initially rejected the transfer in August 2011, it knew the following: that Norris had negotiated a deal that purported to acquire Peterbilt parts; that Norris had misappropriated Peterbilt's trademarks; and that EWCT's deal with Norris breached the dealer agreement through transferring operational assets and control to Norris. (Id.). At the time, Peterbilt had already filed suit against both EWCT and Norris on the basis of these beliefs. As a result, Peterbilt maintains that its rejection of Wilson was reasonable under § 15-211(e).
The Court agrees. Without passing judgment on the merits of the charges of trademark infringement or breach of the dealer agreement in connection with the March deal with Norris, the Court finds that the nature of this litigation, and the distrust that it represents, is a reasonable, sufficient bases for denial of transfer of the franchise to Norris. Absent evidence that this dispute and resultant litigation was manufactured and/or frivolous, it would be manifestly unreasonable to require a manufacturer to enter into a franchise agreement with a party with which it has ongoing business disputes, including matters of business integrity. Peterbilt was well within its right to deny a transfer to an entity with which it was already engaged in a lawsuit for trademark infringement, tortious interference with contractual relations, and unfair competition. This background provides a reasonable explanation for the minimal additional diligence on Norris and speed with which Peterbilt rejected the transfer: all were well aware of their ongoing dispute and Peterbilt was understandably unwilling to enter into a business relationship with Norris at that time.
Even accepting for the sake of argument that Peterbilt preferred John Arscott as a transferee of the EWCT franchise to Norris, the decision was not arbitrary or vindictive. The record demonstrates that Peterbilt's preference was based on concerns regarding the potential for a successful business relationship with Norris after several months of confusion regarding the March deal between EWCT and Norris, culminating in Peterbilt litigation against both parties.
In sum, the Court finds that there is no dispute as to material fact and Peterbilt is entitled to judgment as a matter of law. Anderson, 477 U.S. at 251-52, 106 S.Ct. 2505. Accordingly, the Court finds that the rejection of Norris was not unreasonable under § 15-211(e).
In conclusion, for the reasons set forth above the Court GRANTS in part plaintiff's motion for summary judgment as to Count II of the First Amended Complaint and Count XII of the Amended Counterclaim and the Court DENIES the motion as to Count III of the First Amended Complaint(ECF No. 77), and the Court GRANTS defendant's motion for summary judgment as to Count III of the First Amended Complaint. (ECF No. 81).
