Who is allowed to use or access the software and related documentation licensed to an Embassy Suites franchise?
Embassy_Suites Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- e) Customer recognizes the confidential and proprietary nature of the Software and agrees to maintain the Software in confidence in accordance with Article 6 (Confidentiality). Customer will not permit the Software and related documentation to be used or accessed by anyone other than Customer's employees or contractors pursuant to Section 2.1.2 (b) who are bound by obligations of confidentiality no less stringent than those set forth herein.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 97–305)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Embassy Suites's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the software and related documentation can only be used or accessed by specific individuals. The license granted to the franchisee is personal, non-exclusive, and non-transferable, meaning it cannot be reassigned to another party. The software can only be used on authorized equipment and solely for the operation of the hotel.
Specifically, the software and related documentation are restricted to the franchisee's employees or contractors. However, these employees or contractors must be bound by confidentiality obligations that are no less stringent than those outlined in the franchise agreement. This ensures that sensitive information is protected and not disclosed to unauthorized parties.
This restriction is typical in franchising to protect the franchisor's intellectual property and maintain consistency across all franchise locations. An Embassy Suites franchisee must ensure that all employees and contractors who access the software are aware of and agree to these confidentiality terms. Failure to comply with these restrictions could result in a breach of the franchise agreement and potential legal consequences.