For Best Western properties, what requirement applies to the consistency between photographs and virtual tours displayed on bestwestern.com and Google Business Photos displayed on Google Assets?

According to Best Western's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, all Best Western properties are required to maintain consistency between the photographs and virtual tours displayed on bestwestern.com and the Google Business Photos displayed on Google Assets. This requirement was approved on November 27, 2013, and compliance was required by December 31, 2014. Furthermore, all Best Western Properties must obtain 360-degree panoramic virtual tours with street-view technology through Google ("Google Business Photos").

This means that the images and virtual tours a potential guest sees on Best Western's website should accurately reflect what they would find on Google's platforms. This consistency helps to manage customer expectations and maintain brand integrity across different online channels. For a franchisee, this means ensuring that any visual content provided to Best Western and Google is up-to-date and accurately represents the property's current condition and amenities.

The requirement to use Google Business Photos and maintain consistency across platforms highlights the importance of online presence and reputation management in the hospitality industry. Franchisees need to invest in professional-quality photography and virtual tours to meet Best Western's standards and ensure a positive online experience for potential guests. Failing to comply with these requirements could negatively impact a property's visibility and booking rates.

It is important for prospective franchisees to understand these requirements and factor in the costs associated with creating and maintaining consistent visual content across different online platforms. This includes the initial investment in photography and virtual tours, as well as ongoing efforts to update and refresh the content to reflect any changes to the property.