What Best Western document defines the terms 'Members' and 'Members with Conditions'?

According to Best Western's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the definitions for 'Member' and 'Member with Conditions' are found within Article II of the company's Bylaws. Specifically, a 'Member' is defined as an individual who has been admitted into the corporation according to Article II of these Bylaws and whose membership has not been canceled or terminated.

In contrast, a 'Member with Conditions' refers to either a new member whose property has been activated on Best Western's reservation system but is subject to fulfilling certain agreed-upon conditions after activation, or a member whose membership was continued (rather than terminated) after a hearing by the Board, again subject to satisfying mutually agreed conditions. The critical distinction is that 'Members with Conditions' face the risk of termination without the right to a hearing or probation if they fail to meet the agreed-upon conditions.

For a prospective Best Western franchisee, understanding these definitions is crucial. It clarifies the requirements and potential risks associated with maintaining good standing within the Best Western system. New members need to be aware of any conditions attached to their initial membership, while existing members should understand the circumstances under which their membership could be continued with conditions, and the potential consequences of failing to meet those conditions.