What grade of televisions are Best Western franchisees required to install in their properties?

According to Best Western's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, all televisions installed in Best Western properties must be commercial grade. Specifically, the brand standards for Best Western Plus properties state that all televisions must be commercial grade. This requirement extends to televisions in the lobby, breakfast area, fitness area, and guestrooms.

In addition to being commercial grade, the brand standards also specify minimum sizes for televisions. By December 31, 2024, all Best Western branded hotels were required to replace their televisions to comply with the Television Guidelines. The guidelines state that any televisions purchased for use in guest rooms must meet the minimum sizes and HD programming requirements. All televisions must be commercial grade LCD, LED, or plasma flat panel televisions with HDMI, Proidium chip and VGA ports.

For a prospective franchisee, this means budgeting for commercial-grade televisions when opening or renovating a Best Western property. Commercial-grade televisions are typically more expensive than consumer models but are designed for heavier use and often come with extended warranties, which can reduce long-term maintenance costs. Franchisees should factor in the cost of these televisions, along with the specified sizes, when planning their initial investment and ongoing capital expenditures.

Best Western also requires franchisees to adhere to specific brand standards and design guidelines, which are subject to change. Future changes to these guidelines and brand standards are presented to members for approval through ballots. This ensures that franchisees have a voice in the evolution of the brand's requirements.