What do the terms 'we', 'us', or 'our' refer to in the Best Western FDD?
Best_Western Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
The licensor is Best Western International, Inc. ("we", "us", or "our"). "You" means the individual or entity that signs the Membership Agreement – the "Member". If you are a business entity, "you" means both the business entity and its owners. "System Hotels" refers to hotels operating under the System (as defined below) using the Best Western Identifying Marks (defined below). The "Property" refers to the hotel you will operate under a Membership Agreement. If we have an agent in your state for service of process, we disclose that agent in Exhibit B.
We are an Arizona nonprofit corporation formed on December 13, 1957, with a principal business address located at 6201 N. 24th Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85016. We operate: (i) as a membership association and licensor under Best Western Identifying Marks (defined below), including, without limitation, the "Best Western®", "Best Western Plus®", "Best Western Premier®", "Executive Residency by Best Western®", "@Home by Best WesternSM", "Vīb®", "GLō®", and "Aiden®" names; and (ii) as a licensor under the "BW Premier Collection®" and "BW Signature Collection®" names (the "Premier Marks" and the "Signature Marks," which are referred to collectively as the "Collection Marks"), and under no other name.
Source: Item 1 — The Franchisor and any Parents, Predecessors, and Affiliates (FDD page 8)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Best Western's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the terms 'we', 'us', or 'our' refer to Best Western International, Inc. The FDD specifies that Best Western International, Inc. is the licensor for the Best Western franchise system. This is important for prospective franchisees to understand because it clarifies who they are entering into an agreement with and who is responsible for upholding the franchisor's obligations outlined in the FDD and franchise agreement.
Best Western International, Inc. is described as an Arizona nonprofit corporation formed in 1957. Their principal business address is located in Phoenix, AZ. They operate as a membership association and licensor under various Best Western Identifying Marks, including "Best Western®", "Best Western Plus®", and "Best Western Premier®" names. They also act as a licensor under the "BW Premier Collection®" and "BW Signature Collection®" names.
Understanding the precise legal entity behind the 'we', 'us', or 'our' in the FDD is crucial for a franchisee. It ensures clarity regarding who to contact for support, who is responsible for enforcing brand standards, and who is ultimately accountable for the franchise system's performance. This definition helps to avoid any ambiguity in the franchise agreement and related documents.