What rating must every Best Western Property maintain from AAA/CAA?

According to Best Western's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, every Best Western property must maintain at least a AAA/CAA 2-Diamond rating. If a property falls below this rating or fails a AAA/CAA assessment, the franchisee must request a design review and complete any resulting Property Improvement Plan (PIP) within six months.

This requirement ensures that all Best Western properties maintain a certain level of quality and appeal to customers. The AAA/CAA ratings are well-recognized and can influence a traveler's decision when choosing a hotel. By maintaining at least a 2-Diamond rating, Best Western aims to provide a consistent and satisfactory experience for its guests.

However, franchisees should be aware of the potential costs associated with maintaining this rating. If a property fails to meet the minimum rating, the franchisee will incur expenses related to the design review, estimated at $1,900, and the implementation of any required PIP. These costs can impact the profitability of the franchise, so it's crucial to proactively manage property maintenance and quality to avoid falling below the required rating.

It is also important to note that AAA/CAA ratings no longer apply to the Descriptor Program, which assigns descriptors like "Best Western," "Best Western Plus," or "Best Western Premier." While the rating doesn't directly influence the descriptor, maintaining at least a 2-Diamond rating is still a fundamental requirement for all Best Western properties.