For Crowne Plaza, is it mandatory to acquire property-level technology and telecommunications systems from third-party vendors?

According to Crowne Plaza's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must purchase equipment, software, and services for property-level technology and telecommunications systems from third-party vendors that Crowne Plaza designates or that meet their specifications. This requirement ensures that all Crowne Plaza hotels maintain consistent technology standards and compatibility with the brand's systems.

This mandate extends to various technology components within the hotel. For instance, Crowne Plaza hotels are required to install SCH-approved Wi-Fi equipment and use an Integrator for the installation of Wi-Fi equipment for Guest Internet Access. Similarly, Crowne Plaza hotels must utilize an approved Keycard System that meets brand requirements, with costs varying based on the hotel size, ranging from $11,000 to $27,500, excluding the cost of door locks.

The FDD also specifies that franchisees must purchase "private network" connecting services, or another solution Crowne Plaza specifies, from Holiday's designated vendor for communication with the Reservation System. Additionally, franchisees are required to install certified equipment specified for the Property Management System (PMS) and must request a waiver to use an alternative source. These requirements ensure that the hotel's technology infrastructure aligns with Crowne Plaza's standards and supports seamless operations and guest services.