For an Atwell Suites hotel, who is responsible for procuring and maintaining the hardware, software, and data communication required to connect to the System?
Atwell_Suites Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
could occur, has occurred, or is occurring.
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- Modifications to Licensee Environment. Licensee will not operate its Hardware or Software, including making any modifications to its Hardware and Software, in any manner that may have a detrimental effect on Licensee's or IHG's operations. Such detrimental effects include rendering such Hardware or Software, or any IHG Hardware or Software, inoperable or unresponsive, as determined by IHG. In such cases, if Licensee requests support from IHG in trouble shooting or repairing these effects, Licensee will be solely responsible for all related service, repair, or replacement costs, including all costs of IHG or its Service Providers, which will be billed on a time-and-materials basis.
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- Updates to the Minimum Configuration. Within 90 days (or a shorter or longer period specified by IHG in writing (email sufficient)) following any update to the Minimum Configuration by IHG, Licensee will (i) purchase and install then-current approved Software and approved Hardware described in the Minimum Configuration, and (ii) decommission any Hardware and Software that is no longer approved, as applicable, in each case at Licensee's expense.
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- WAN Hardware. IHG may install or cause to be installed a wide area network (WAN) and WAN Hardware for Hotel's use in communicating with IHG's systems.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 99–486)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Atwell Suites' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisee, referred to as the Licensee, is generally responsible for procuring and maintaining the hardware, software, and data communication systems needed to connect to IHG's (InterContinental Hotels Group) systems. This includes purchasing and installing approved software and hardware as specified in the Minimum Configuration, as well as decommissioning any hardware and software that is no longer approved, all at the Licensee's expense. The Licensee is also responsible for purchasing broadband Internet access to establish the primary WAN link.
Atwell Suites may install a wide area network (WAN) and WAN hardware for the Hotel's use in communicating with IHG's systems. While IHG determines the optimal method of access, the Licensee does not acquire any ownership interest in the WAN hardware. The Licensee grants IHG or its agents the right to enter the Hotel property for the purpose of installing, inspecting, maintaining, and removing the WAN hardware. The Licensee is also responsible for the WAN installation fee based on IHG's or a Service Provider's standard rates.
The Licensee is also responsible for costs associated with site preparation for hardware installation, including providing necessary electrical connections, power, outlets, air conditioning, and network cabling. If site preparation is not completed to IHG's satisfaction, the Licensee may be charged a fee. Additionally, the Licensee must acquire the hardware, software, and communication capabilities specified in the Minimum Configuration at least 120 days before the Hotel opening date and enter into Participation Agreements for Additional Required Services.
In summary, while IHG may provide certain hardware and software or specify the required systems, the financial responsibility for procuring, installing, and maintaining these systems largely falls on the Atwell Suites franchisee. This includes ongoing costs for internet access, hardware and software updates, and any necessary site preparations or modifications.