What are the naming requirements for a Best Western property?
Best_Western Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
500.9 All Members are required to use the name "Best Western" as part of the name of their Property either as the sole name or in combination with another name. All advertising of a Member Property bearing Best Western as its sole name, however, shall include the statement "individually owned." Legal entities such as corporations, partnerships, firms or associations that own, lease or operate properties are not permitted to use the name "Best Western" as any part of their legal name.
300.1 The appropriate Best Western logo shall be incorporated into all branded signs, including outdoor billboards, as detailed in the Brand Identity Manual as approved by the Board. A budget, dated, cluttered, or disjointed sign is not permitted as may be determined by Best Western Brand Identity Administration. The Member or Applicant shall have the right to appeal to the Board regarding compliance with this Rule. The decision of the Board shall be final.
300.5 The Member shall be responsible for the cost of installation of any and all Best Western signs and shall be responsible for maintaining such signs in first-class condition.
300.6 Upon termination or cancellation of Membership, the former Best Western Member shall remove all Best Western branded signs, names, and marks, and any part thereof, or any display of a Best Western mark, logo, or emblem. The cost of removal of Best Western identification upon termination or cancellation of Membership shall be the responsibility of the former Member. If Best Western must take action to require or complete the removal, destruction, or alteration of Best Western branded signs, names, marks, or any other Best Western identification, the former Member shall be responsible for costs and
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 108–413)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Best Western's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, all members must include "Best Western" as part of their property's name, either as the sole name or in combination with another name. However, if Best Western is used as the sole name, the advertising must include the statement "individually owned." This requirement ensures brand consistency while also informing customers about the ownership structure of individual properties. Legal entities such as corporations, partnerships, firms, or associations are prohibited from using "Best Western" as part of their legal name.
Best Western also utilizes a Descriptor Program, which allows properties to be identified as "Best Western", "Best Western Plus", or "Best Western Premier" to communicate the level of hotel products and amenities guests can expect. Each descriptor has specific Design Guidelines and Brand Standards that properties must meet. These descriptors help differentiate properties within the Best Western brand and cater to different customer expectations and preferences.
Members must adhere to specific rules regarding signs and advertising. The appropriate Best Western logo must be incorporated into all branded signs, including outdoor billboards, as detailed in the Brand Identity Manual. Signs must not be budget, dated, cluttered, or disjointed, as determined by Best Western Brand Identity Administration. Members are responsible for the costs of installing and maintaining these signs in first-class condition. Upon termination or cancellation of membership, all Best Western branded signs, names, and marks must be removed at the former member's expense.