What is included in the Keycard System cost for a Crowne Plaza?
Crowne_Plaza Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
epending on the vendor. Upon circuit disconnection, all vendor equipment must be returned within 30 days or the Hotel will be subject to fees covering the cost of hardware (Managed Router, NIDS, etc.).
Keycard System: All Crowne Plaza branded hotels must utilize an approved Keycard System that meets brand requirements. The estimated initial cost for the Keycard System solution purchase and installation will range from $11,000 to $16,500 for a hotel with up to 100 rooms; $11,000 to $22,000 for a hotel with up to 200 rooms; $11,000 to $27,500 for a hotel with more than rooms. This cost includes the server, key encoders, installation, and support. It does not include the cost of the locks for the doors themselves. You must obtain ongoing maintenance and support for the required Keycard System software, including upgrades and new versions. You must also obtain ongoing equipment maintenance for the Keycard System hardware. The Keycard System provider will bill and collect the fee from you for the required Keycard System hardware / software support. The costs will vary depending on the Hotel's specific technology needs, including the number of key encoders and servers at the Hotel. The Keycard System must interface with the Property Management System (PMS).
In-Room Entertainment: The estimated costs for In-Room Entertainment will be driven by the number of guest rooms, NUC device, Chromecast devices, set top boxes, installation costs, etc.
Source: Item 7 — Estimated Initial Investment (FDD pages 51–59)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Crowne Plaza's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the initial estimated cost for the Keycard System, which all Crowne Plaza hotels must utilize, includes the server, key encoders, installation, and support. The cost does not include the locks for the doors themselves. The total cost ranges from $11,000 to $16,500 for hotels with up to 100 rooms, $11,000 to $22,000 for hotels with up to 200 rooms, and $11,000 to $27,500 for hotels with more than 200 rooms.
Franchisees must also obtain ongoing maintenance and support for the Keycard System software, including upgrades and new versions, as well as ongoing equipment maintenance for the hardware. The Keycard System provider will bill and collect the fee for the required hardware and software support, with costs varying depending on the hotel's specific technology needs, including the number of key encoders and servers. The Keycard System must interface with the Property Management System (PMS).
For a 250-room Crowne Plaza, the estimated cost for the Key Card System is between $11,000 and $27,500. This cost is paid to suppliers as required and may be subject to additional costs. It is important for prospective franchisees to factor in these ongoing maintenance and support costs when evaluating the overall investment required for the franchise.