Can Best Western make changes to the system of operating hotels under the Best Western Identifying Marks?
Best_Western Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Except for our restrictions within the Property's MMA and your right to request an Impact Analysis as described above, we and our affiliates have the right to engage in any other businesses of any nature, whether in the lodging or hospitality industry or not, and whether under the Best Western Identifying Marks, a competing brand, or otherwise, even if they compete with the Property or the Best Western Identifying Marks, and whether we or our affiliates start those businesses, or purchase, merge with, acquire, are acquired by, come under common ownership with, or associate with, such other businesses. We may also use or license to others all or part of the system for operating hotels under the Best Western Identifying Marks; use the facilities, programs, services and/or personnel used in connection with the system for operating hotels under the Best Western Identifying Marks in other businesses; use the system for operating hotels under the Best Western Identifying Marks and the Best Western Identifying Marks in other businesses; and add, alter, delete or otherwise modify elements of the system for operating hotels under the Best Western Identifying Marks.
Source: Item 16 — Restrictions on What the Franchisee May Sell (FDD pages 87–88)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Best Western's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Best Western has the authority to modify the operating system for hotels using the Best Western Identifying Marks. Specifically, Best Western can add, alter, delete, or otherwise modify elements of the system.
This means that Best Western franchisees must be prepared for potential changes to the standards, specifications, requirements, criteria, and policies that govern the operation of their hotels. These modifications could affect various aspects of the business, including brand identity, quality assurance, customer care, new construction, refurbishment, and design. Franchisees are expected to adhere to these changes as part of their Membership Agreement.
For a prospective franchisee, this highlights the importance of staying informed about any updates or modifications to the Best Western system. It also underscores the need to be adaptable and willing to implement changes as directed by the franchisor. While Best Western has the right to make these changes, franchisees should also have channels to communicate with the franchisor and provide feedback on proposed modifications.