Under what circumstances might IHG grant limited exceptions to the Standards for a Crowne Plaza hotel?
Crowne_Plaza Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
The Hotel and all other hotels operated under the Brand System will be subject to the Standards, as they may from time to time be modified or revised by IHG, including limited exceptions from compliance which may be made based on local conditions, type of hotel or special circumstances. The Standards and any modifications to them can be delivered by IHG to Licensee in hard paper copy or, at IHG's option, be made available to Licensee in digital, electronic or other computerized form. If communicated in digital, electronic or other computerized form, Licensee must pay any costs to retrieve, review, use or access the Standards. The Standards are confidential and remain the property of IHG.
F. Other Arrangements for Marketing, Etc.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 100–424)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Crowne Plaza Franchise Disclosure Document, IHG may grant limited exceptions to the brand standards based on specific circumstances. These exceptions can be influenced by local conditions, the type of hotel, or other special circumstances. This means that not every Crowne Plaza hotel will necessarily be held to the exact same standards across the board.
For a prospective franchisee, this flexibility could be beneficial. For example, a Crowne Plaza located in a historic building might receive an exception to certain construction or design standards that would be impossible or impractical to meet. Similarly, a smaller Crowne Plaza in a rural area might have different service requirements than a large, urban hotel.
However, it's important to note that IHG retains wide latitude in making these judgments and can modify the standards at any time. The FDD states that IHG's judgment in applying standards is controlling. Franchisees are responsible for any costs associated with accessing and reviewing the standards, especially if they are communicated in digital or electronic form. Therefore, franchisees should stay informed about any changes and understand the specific standards applicable to their location and hotel type.