What documents must Best Western receive for the Membership Agreement to be binding and effective?
Best_Western Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
In the event the Application is approved by the Board, and as a prior condition to your membership, you will be required to submit: (a) an executed Terms of Approval letter ("Approval Letter") which will include conditions of membership (e.g. completion of a Property Improvement Plan); and (b) an executed Membership Agreement ("Agreement").
You may not hold yourself out to the public as a Best Western branded hotel until all conditions are met.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 108–413)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Best Western's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, prior to membership, Best Western requires the submission of two key documents: an executed Terms of Approval letter, which outlines the specific conditions of membership such as the completion of a Property Improvement Plan, and an executed Membership Agreement. Until these conditions are met, a prospective Best Western branded hotel cannot present itself to the public as such.
This requirement ensures that both Best Western and the applicant are aligned on the terms and conditions of the membership before it becomes effective. The Approval Letter serves as a clear statement of what is expected of the member, while the Membership Agreement formalizes the relationship and obligations of both parties.
It is important for potential Best Western members to carefully review the Terms of Approval letter to fully understand the conditions they must meet. These conditions, such as completing a Property Improvement Plan, can involve significant investment of time and money. Ensuring these requirements are understood and achievable is a crucial step in the membership process.