Helmchen v. White Hen Pantry, Inc.

OPINION

STATON, Judge.

Robert and Judy Helmchen, individually and as representatives of the Estate of Christel Helmchen, deceased, bring this appeal contending that the trial court erred by granting summary judgment in favor of the defendant, White Hen Pantry, Inc (“WHP”). The Helmehens present two issues which we consolidate and restate as whether WHP owes a duty to its franchisees’ employees to provide a secure workplace.

We affirm.

WHP is a franchisor of convenience stores. WHP entered into a franchise agreement with Wayne Whitacre for a convenience store to be operated in Valparaiso, Indiana.…