What is the range for the Entrance Fee for a Best Western franchise, and how is it comprised?
Best_Western Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
and the Technology and Marketing | | | | Assessment of 1.00% of PRR |
| Type of Expenditure | Amount | Method of Payment | When Due | To Whom Payment is to be made | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Impact Study Fee (1) | $0 - $4,000 | Lump Sum | Before Commission of Impact Study | Us | |
| Entrance Fee (2) | $54,000 (comprised of Evaluation Fee | Lump Sum | Evaluation Fee portion upon | Us | 31 |
CONVERSION – BEST WESTERN SYSTEM HOTEL (75-ROOM)
| Type of Expenditure | Amount | Method of Payment | When Due | To Whom Payment is to be made |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| of $4,000 plus Affiliation Fee of $45,000 (50 rooms or less) plus $200 for each additional room up to 1,000 rooms) | Application of Membership and Affiliation Fee portion before Board’s consideration of Application of Membership | |||
| Proposed Construction | $0 - $35,000 | Lump Sum | When Requested | Us |
| Extension Fee (3) |
Source: Item 7 — Estimated Initial Investment (FDD pages 37–61)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Best Western's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Entrance Fee is $59,000. This fee is comprised of a $4,000 Evaluation Fee and an Affiliation Fee of $45,000 for properties with 50 rooms or less. For properties with more than 50 rooms, an additional $200 is added for each room, up to a maximum of 1,000 rooms.
For a new Best Western member purchasing their membership from an existing member, a transfer fee is charged instead of the Entrance Fee. This transfer fee is equal to 50% of the then-current Entrance Fee. The Evaluation Fee portion is due upon application for membership, and the Affiliation Fee otherwise becomes non-refundable at the time of signing the Membership Agreement.
Prospective franchisees should note that these fees are subject to change. It is important to verify the current fee structure with Best Western at the time of application. Understanding the components of the Entrance Fee and the conditions under which it is refundable is crucial for financial planning.