What are the required actions after Best Western approves an application, but before membership is granted?
Best_Western Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
In the event the Application is approved by the Board, and as a prior condition to your membership, you will be required to submit: (a) an executed Terms of Approval letter ("Approval Letter") which will include conditions of membership (e.g. completion of a Property Improvement Plan); and (b) an executed Membership Agreement ("Agreement").
You may not hold yourself out to the public as a Best Western branded hotel until all conditions are met.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 108–413)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Best Western's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, after the Best Western Board of Directors approves a membership application, the applicant must fulfill certain conditions before officially becoming a member. Specifically, the applicant is required to submit two documents: an executed Terms of Approval letter and an executed Membership Agreement. The Approval Letter will outline the conditions of membership, which may include completing a Property Improvement Plan.
In addition to submitting the required documents, Best Western may impose one or more contingencies or conditions at its sole discretion. The applicant will not be entitled to membership until the Board receives satisfactory proof that all such conditions or contingencies have been met in a timely manner.
It is important to note that applicants cannot represent themselves as a Best Western branded hotel until all conditions are met and final approval is granted. However, Best Western may allow customary membership services to begin during the contingency period, provided the applicant agrees to comply with the stated conditions, pay the established fees, dues, and assessments, and cover the costs of any goods or services provided by or ordered through Best Western. Commencement of these services does not guarantee membership status.