Who owns the intellectual property developed by IHG in the provision of services to a Crowne Plaza Participating Property?

According to the 2025 Crowne Plaza Franchise Disclosure Document, IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) retains ownership of any intellectual property developed by IHG in providing services to a Crowne Plaza Participating Property. The Participating Property acknowledges that all intellectual property, whether registered or unregistered, remains the exclusive property of IHG and its affiliates. The Participating Property is not allowed to use this intellectual property without IHG's prior written consent.

This means that while a franchisee benefits from the services and systems provided by IHG, they do not gain any ownership rights to the underlying intellectual property. This includes any new innovations, processes, or materials developed by IHG during the term of the agreement. The franchisee's use of such intellectual property is strictly limited to what is permitted under the franchise agreement.

This clause protects IHG's investment in its brand and systems, ensuring consistent quality and standards across all Crowne Plaza locations. It also prevents franchisees from leveraging IHG's intellectual property to create competing businesses or to benefit other ventures without authorization. Franchisees must ensure compliance with this provision, as any breach is considered a material breach of the participation agreement.