Is a Best Western franchisee required to comply with the Standards and specifications detailed in the Manual?
Best_Western Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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- As discussed in Item 8, you are required to comply with the Standards and specifications as detailed in the Manual. Among other things, the Standards may regulate the designated and approved suppliers of equipment, signs, fixtures, inventory and supplies you are required to use. While we do not currently provide, deliver or install any of these items directly, we may do so in the future. We also make available to you for use in the Property various purchase, lease, or other arrangements with respect to exterior signs, operating equipment, operating supplies and furnishings, which we may have and which we make available to other System Hotels (Membership Agreement, Section A).
Source: Item 11 — Franchisor's Assistance, Advertising, Computer Systems, and Training (FDD pages 66–77)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Best Western's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to comply with the standards and specifications detailed in the Manual. The Manual contains the 'Standards,' encompassing all criteria and policies developed by Best Western for System Hotels. These standards cover various aspects, including design, construction, renovation, appearance, operation, maintenance, marketing, services, and quality assurance.
Best Western also reviews designs or plans for construction or renovation of the System Hotel and can grant or deny approval based on compliance with accessibility laws. Franchisees cannot begin construction or renovations until they receive approval from Best Western. Once approval is granted, franchisees cannot make changes to the designs or plans without advance consent.
Compliance with the standards outlined in the Manual is a material obligation. These standards may regulate approved suppliers for equipment, signs, fixtures, inventory, and supplies that franchisees are required to use. Best Western may also offer purchase, lease, or other arrangements for exterior signs, operating equipment, supplies, and furnishings.