For Best Western franchisees using AutoClerk, how can AutoClerk increase the fees charged to the customer?
Best_Western Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- 7.2 Fee Increases. AutoClerk may increase the Fees upon thirty (30) days written notice to Customer. The increased Fees shall become effective on the date specified in the notice unless Customer terminates this Agreement by providing written notice to AutoClerk on or before the date on which the increased Fees would otherwise go into effect.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 108–413)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Best Western's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, AutoClerk, a service provider, has the ability to increase fees charged to Best Western franchisees. AutoClerk may increase the fees upon providing a written notice of thirty days to the customer, in this case, the Best Western franchisee.
The increased fees will take effect on the date specified in the notice. However, the Best Western franchisee has the option to terminate the agreement with AutoClerk if they do not agree with the fee increase. To do so, the franchisee must provide written notice to AutoClerk before the date on which the increased fees are scheduled to take effect.
This clause provides Best Western franchisees with a degree of control over costs associated with AutoClerk's services. Franchisees need to carefully evaluate any fee increase notices from AutoClerk and decide whether to accept the new fees or terminate the agreement to seek alternative solutions. This also highlights the importance of carefully reviewing contracts with third-party vendors and understanding the terms related to fee adjustments and termination rights.