Ark. Code Ann. § 4-72-602: Commencement of civil action or arbitration proceeding

(a) A party to a restaurant franchise may commence a civil action or, if the restaurant franchise allows or compels arbitration of disputes, may initiate an arbitration proceeding, including an action or proceeding for violation of this subchapter, in Arkansas if either party to the restaurant franchise is a resident of Arkansas.

(b) Such action may be brought or arbitration initiated in the county in which the franchised restaurant is located or expected to be located or in which the principal place of business of the franchisee or franchisor is located.