Who is responsible for purchasing all tea dispensers and blending equipment for all applicable Crowne Plaza Hotels?

According to the 2025 Crowne Plaza FDD, the franchisee, referred to as the Customer, is responsible for purchasing all tea dispensers and blending equipment for all applicable hotels. This requirement is part of the optional Smoothie and Gold Peak Tea® Fresh Brewed Tea Program. If a Crowne Plaza Hotel chooses to serve the Company's tea, they must purchase the necessary equipment.

This means that unlike some other equipment that may be leased or provided by the company, the franchisee bears the full cost of acquiring and maintaining the tea dispensing and blending equipment. This can be a significant investment, especially for hotels that plan to offer a wide variety of tea or smoothie options. The FDD also states that any service on the tea dispensers or blending equipment will be at the cost and responsibility of the Customer.

Prospective franchisees should carefully consider these costs when evaluating the potential profitability of offering tea and smoothies at their Crowne Plaza location. It is important to factor in not only the initial purchase price of the equipment but also the ongoing maintenance and repair expenses. Franchisees should also inquire about the types of equipment that are approved or recommended by the company to ensure compliance with brand standards and operational efficiency.

In summary, while the Crowne Plaza provides the option to serve smoothies and fresh-brewed tea, the financial responsibility for the necessary equipment and its upkeep falls squarely on the franchisee. This is a key consideration for budgeting and operational planning.