I won't resort to name calling but the inescapable fact that the...

I won't resort to name calling but the inescapable fact that the CA experts have to face is that you will need to establish a legal basis (yes that's right a legal basis) for your 'class action'. And pursuing that path will take you way beyond what you have posted here. Still, you should go for it and let the experience provide you with what it does.

I haven't seen the franchisee contracts so it is folly to comment as to whether they have the basis for an action.

RFG may well have created misery for franchisees - that seems plainly irrefutable. However, misery and financial loss are not, on their own, a basis for a legal action. In my view.

FYI

I am not a covert holder nor a DT.

Good luck to you.