For an Atwell Suites franchise, what is the required action regarding photo documentation after the 'Ground Break'?
Atwell_Suites Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Licensee must complete "Ground Break" of the Hotel by the Ground Break Due Date set forth in Attachment "A") and continuously construct and furnish the Hotel in accordance with the Final Plans and the Standards so that the Hotel opens in the Brand System by the Opening Deadline set forth in section B.9. below. "Ground Break" means the completion of the Hotel building foundation through ground-level or the completion of the finished ground floor slab.
Licensee must provide photo documentation of Ground Break to IHG within one day thereafter.
Licensee must submit for IHG's review and approval any and all signage, shop drawings, guest room FF&E and Public Area FF&E plans and associated specifications as outlined in the submittal guidelines ("FF&E Specs") to IHG, as designed and prepared by a licensed or accredited design professional with commercial building design background, no later than thirty (30) days after Ground Break.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 99–486)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Atwell Suites Franchise Disclosure Document, after the "Ground Break" of the hotel, the franchisee must provide photo documentation to IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) within one day. The term "Ground Break" is defined as the completion of the hotel building foundation through ground-level or the completion of the finished ground floor slab.
This requirement ensures that Atwell Suites can monitor the progress of the hotel construction and verify that the initial construction phase has been completed according to the brand's standards. The quick turnaround time for submitting the photo documentation emphasizes the importance of keeping the franchisor informed about the construction timeline.
Furthermore, after the Ground Break, the franchisee has 30 days to submit signage, shop drawings, guest room FF&E (furniture, fixtures, and equipment), and Public Area FF&E plans and associated specifications to IHG for review and approval. These submissions must be designed and prepared by a licensed or accredited design professional with commercial building design experience. This ensures that the design and specifications meet Atwell Suites' standards and are professionally executed.
Overall, these post-Ground Break requirements highlight the franchisor's active involvement in the construction and design phases, aiming to maintain brand consistency and quality across all Atwell Suites locations. Franchisees need to be prepared to promptly provide the required documentation and adhere to the specified timelines to ensure compliance with the franchise agreement.