Can Best Western change the system of operating hotels under the Best Western Identifying Marks?
Best_Western Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Except for our restrictions within the Property's MMA and your right to request an Impact Analysis as described above, we and our affiliates have the right to engage in any other businesses of any nature, whether in the lodging or hospitality industry or not, and whether under the Best Western Identifying Marks, a competing brand, or otherwise, even if they compete with the Property or the Best Western Identifying Marks, and whether we or our affiliates start those businesses, or purchase, merge with, acquire, are acquired by, come under common ownership with, or associate with, such other businesses. We may also use or license to others all or part of the system for operating hotels under the Best Western Identifying Marks; use the facilities, programs, services and/or personnel used in connection with the system for operating hotels under the Best Western Identifying Marks in other businesses; use the system for operating hotels under the Best Western Identifying Marks and the Best Western Identifying Marks in other businesses; and add, alter, delete or otherwise modify elements of the system for operating hotels under the Best Western Identifying Marks.
Source: Item 16 — Restrictions on What the Franchisee May Sell (FDD pages 87–88)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Best Western's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Best Western has the authority to modify the system for operating its hotels under the Best Western Identifying Marks. This includes the ability to add, alter, delete, or otherwise modify elements of the system.
This means that Best Western can change various aspects of the hotel operation, such as the facilities, programs, services, and personnel used in connection with the system. They can also use or license the system and identifying marks to others or in other businesses. For a potential franchisee, this indicates that the operational standards and requirements of a Best Western hotel are subject to change at Best Western's discretion.
While Best Western has the right to modify the system, franchisees should stay informed about any upcoming changes and understand how these changes might affect their operations. It is important to maintain open communication with Best Western to address any concerns or questions regarding modifications to the operating system. Franchisees should also ensure they receive adequate support and training to implement any new standards or procedures effectively.