Who is the approved supplier of distribution system photographs for Best Western franchisees?
Best_Western Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
In order to license the PMS from AutoClerk, you will be required to enter into a Software as a Service Agreement in the form attached as Exhibit K. You are also currently required to purchase Lodging Link, a product offered by Comtrol Corporation that provides connectivity and integration of the PMS into other guest and hotel service systems (e.g. Call Accounting, PBX, in-room entertainment, Key Card, etc.). We are the only approved supplier and licenser of the BWI Two-Way connect software, which connects your PMS software system to our hotel software system. We are also the only approved supplier of distribution system photographs that must be taken of the Property and certain other distribution services disclosed in Item 6. We, AutoClerk and Comtrol Corporation are the only approved suppliers of certain PMS-related installation, maintenance and licensing, and you will be required to make payments to us/AutoClerk for those services.
Source: Item 8 — Restrictions on Sources of Products and Services (FDD pages 61–64)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Best Western's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Best Western is the only approved supplier of distribution system photographs. These photographs must be taken of the property, and Best Western also provides certain other distribution services as disclosed in Item 6 of the FDD.
This means that franchisees are required to use Best Western for these specific photography and distribution services and cannot choose an alternative supplier. This requirement ensures brand consistency and quality control across all Best Western locations.
Additionally, the FDD states that Best Western, AutoClerk, and Comtrol Corporation are the only approved suppliers of certain PMS-related installation, maintenance, and licensing. Franchisees are required to make payments to Best Western and AutoClerk for these services. This further restricts the franchisee's choice of suppliers for these essential services.