Are all the services and programs offered by Embassy Suites optional for franchisees?
Embassy_Suites Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
| TYPE OF FEE | AMOUNT | DUE DATE | REMARKS |
|---|---|---|---|
| and your employees, assistance in | |||
| recruiting various types of employees, | |||
| and other services and programs. | |||
| Most of these services and programs | |||
| will be optional, but some, including | |||
| systems upgrades and changes in | |||
| System standards, which may require | |||
| additional mandatory training or | |||
| participation in additional programs, | |||
| may be mandatory. |
Source: Item 5 — INITIAL FEES (FDD pages 22–27)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Embassy Suites' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, most of the services and programs offered to franchisees are optional. However, some services and programs are mandatory. These mandatory services include system upgrades and changes in system standards. These mandatory changes may require additional training or participation in additional programs.
Embassy Suites requires franchisees to use certain business computer systems, which may change periodically. Currently, franchisees must acquire and install hardware and software for the OnQ system, Guest Internet Access system, GRO System, Delphi system, Connected Room system, Digital Floor Plan, Digital Key system, and the Hilton Opening Transition Tool. Franchisees must pay Hilton's affiliate, HSS, certain initial set up fees for some of these systems.
Specifically, franchisees must use the Digital Key system, which allows guests to open doors with their mobile devices. There is currently no separate charge for this system because it is part of OnQ. Franchisees must also use the Hilton Opening Transition Tool, a preopening guide, with a current license fee of up to $1,000. Additionally, franchisees must update the OnQ system at least every 3 years, potentially incurring costs similar to the original installation.