What is the role of Hilton Worldwide in the Embassy Suites franchise application process?

This franchise application letter ("Application Letter") is provided to Hilton Franchise Holding LLC ("Franchisor"), a subsidiary of Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. ("Hilton Worldwide"), authorized to consider and process an application for a franchise to operate a hotel under the Brand at the Location in the United States ("Hotel"). The present or future subsidiaries and affiliates of Hilton Worldwide are collectively referred to as "entities" ("Entities"). Applicant understands that Franchisor is relying on the information provided in this application and all documents submitted by Applicant and co-owners and their agents, advisers and representatives in connection with or in support of the application, including, but not limited to, this Application Letter (together, the "Application"). Applicant agrees to supply such additional information, statements or data as may be requested by Franchisor.

• 1. Applicant authorizes credit agencies/bureaus, financial institutions, companies and individuals to disclose to Hilton Worldwide any and all information for the purpose of Hilton Worldwide and the Entities completing any necessary credit and/or background investigations in connection with this Application and execution of any Franchise Agreement.
• 1. Applicant, jointly and severally if applicable, agrees to indemnify and defend Hilton Worldwide and the Entities and their respective officers, directors, employees, agents, representatives, and assignees (collectively, the "Hilton Worldwide Indemnitees") against, and to hold them harmless from, all losses in connection with the Application and the Location, including breach of any representations, warranties or undertakings contained herein and all claims, demands, suits, causes of action, liabilities, losses or otherwise, directly or indirectly incurred (including legal and accounting fees and expenses), and including claims as a result of Franchisor processing the Application and/or approving a Franchise Agreement. Each Hilton Worldwide Indemnitee shall have the right independently to take any action it may deem necessary in its sole discretion to protect and defend itself against any threatened action subject to Applicant's indemnification, without regard to the expense, forum or other parties that may be involved. Each Hilton Worldwide Indemnitee shall have sole and exclusive control over the defense of any such action (including the right to be represented by counsel of its choosing) and over the settlement, compromise or other disposition thereof. Hilton Worldwide may rely on any information, statement or notice from the Applicant pertaining to the Location or Franchise Agreement without having to investigate or ascertain the accuracy of any fact or allegation in the information, statement ornotice.

Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 97–305)