What is the Guest Internet Access also known as for a Crowne Plaza?
Crowne_Plaza Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
n and configuration; training in the use of the payment program devices and software, and expenses for travel, meals and lodging. Hardware warranties are purchased at the initial time of procurement.
Guest Internet Access: The Guest Internet Access ("GIA") Hardware and Bandwidth ("IHG Connect") estimates for infrastructure needs can vary greatly by location and building type. Actual costs for hardware can only be obtained once the Integrator service provider site surveys are completed. Final costs are based on individual unique building and construction circumstances of a given property. The site survey will help determine the sizing, number of switches, number of access points, etc. through a Wi-Fi heat map coverage diagram. You must purchase or lease all equipment from Integrators whose products and services meet Holiday's specifications.
Actual costs for Bandwidth are determined by the cost provided in the IHG Marketplace. Hotels will select the circuit and access size based on the minimum requirements set forth in the Standards. Bandwidth circuits are installed and required before GIA Hardware installation. If the serviceability area of the Hotel requires special fiber construction beyond the budgeted construction, then the Hotel may have to pay a direct fee for the additional construction cost directly to a fiber vendor for your Guest Internet Access Bandwidth. Each Hotel is responsible for detailing the demark for installation of fiber and equipment for Bandwidth service at the start of the Bandwidth circuit order. If the fiber order and its Right of Way (on property) construction to the demark is delayed due to Hotel site readiness, the Bandwidth order may be subject to cancellation and the Hotel may be subjected to cancellation fees ranging from $250 to $2500
Source: Item 7 — Estimated Initial Investment (FDD pages 51–59)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Crowne Plaza Franchise Disclosure Document, Guest Internet Access is also referred to as "GIA" Hardware and Bandwidth or "IHG Connect". The FDD indicates that the costs associated with GIA can vary significantly depending on the location and building type of the hotel. Prospective franchisees should be aware that the actual costs for hardware can only be determined after the Integrator service provider completes site surveys. These surveys help determine the necessary infrastructure, such as the number of switches and access points, using a Wi-Fi heat map coverage diagram. Franchisees are required to purchase or lease all equipment from Integrators whose products and services meet Holiday's specifications.
Bandwidth costs are determined by the prices listed in the IHG Marketplace. Hotels must select the appropriate circuit and access size based on the minimum requirements outlined in the Standards. The installation of bandwidth circuits is a prerequisite for GIA Hardware installation. If the hotel's service area requires special fiber construction beyond the budgeted amount, the hotel may incur direct fees payable to a fiber vendor. The hotel is responsible for specifying the demarcation point for fiber installation and equipment at the start of the bandwidth circuit order. Delays in the fiber order or Right of Way construction due to the hotel's site readiness may result in order cancellation and cancellation fees ranging from $250 to $2500, depending on the vendor. Upon circuit disconnection, all vendor equipment must be returned within 30 days to avoid fees covering the cost of hardware such as Managed Routers and NIDS.
Given the variability in costs and the dependencies on site surveys and vendor requirements, it is crucial for potential Crowne Plaza franchisees to conduct thorough due diligence. Understanding the specific infrastructure needs of their location and carefully managing the installation process can help mitigate unexpected expenses and ensure compliance with brand standards. The potential for cancellation fees and hardware replacement costs further underscores the importance of adhering to timelines and vendor agreements.