Does the Best Western FDD include the Membership Agreement as an exhibit?
Best_Western Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
(collectively, the "Best Western Identifying Marks"). Members operating System Hotels operate according to the Membership Agreement (Exhibit C), our Membership Fees (Exhibit J-3), our Articles of Incorporation, our Bylaws (Exhibit J-1), our Members' Rules and Regulations (Exhibit J-2), the Application for Membership (Exhibit I), guidelines, standards, resolutions and policies adopted by our Board of Directors (the "Board") from time to time (including brand identity, quality assurance, customer care, new construction, refurbishment and design manuals and policies) and other documents defining terms or rights of Memberships (collectively, the "Regulatory Documents").
Source: Item 22 — Contracts (FDD pages 107–108)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Best Western FDD, the Membership Agreement is included as an exhibit. Specifically, Item 3 mentions that the Membership Agreement is included as Exhibit C. Additionally, Exhibit D includes state addenda to the Membership Agreement. Prospective franchisees can review these exhibits to understand the terms and conditions of the agreement, as well as any state-specific modifications that may apply to their situation. This is a standard practice in franchising, as the franchise agreement outlines the legal obligations and rights of both the franchisor and the franchisee.
Furthermore, the FDD also includes other related documents as exhibits, such as the Application for Membership (Exhibit I), Bylaws (Exhibit J-1), and Members' Rules and Regulations (Exhibit J-2). These documents, along with the Membership Agreement, collectively define the regulatory framework within which Best Western members operate. Understanding these documents is crucial for any potential franchisee to ensure they are aware of all the rules, regulations, and obligations associated with becoming a Best Western member.
In addition to the Membership Agreement and related exhibits, the Best Western FDD also references an Approval Letter, which outlines specific conditions of membership, such as the completion of a Property Improvement Plan. This letter, along with the Membership Agreement, forms the basis of the contractual relationship between Best Western and its members. Prospective franchisees should carefully review all these documents to fully understand their rights and obligations before making a final decision.