Three Burger King franchisees are taking their franchisor to court. They argue that the corporation cannot force their restaurants to stay open until 2 a.m. on the weekends because it violates their franchise agreement, which specifies 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

The franchisee's independent association agrees and supports these three. Joseph Anghelone, chairman of the National Franchisee Association, issued a statement Tuesday.

"[The] NFA has repeatedly advised our franchisor to recommend, but not mandate, extended hours and allow financial and security exceptions to these initiatives," Anghelone said. "So far we have been unsuccessful. Franchisees hope the Florida courts will quickly resolve the matter, restoring our independent business rights and safeguarding our employees and customers." [via Miami Herald]

"Na-ah", says Burger King, who is confident that no such rights exist in the franchise agreement. The corporation judges that franchisees need to observe extended hours to stay competitive.