Is the use of the Digital Key system a requirement for Embassy Suites franchisees?
Embassy_Suites Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You must use our Digital Key system, which enables hotel guests to open their guest room doors wirelessly (without a physical door key) through the Hilton Honors App. This effectively allows guests to use their mobile phone as their room key. There is no separate charge for the Digital Key system. The software for the system is within the OnQ system described above, and the hardware consists of electronic door locksets and a programming device which are included in the construction cost estimates in Item 7 above.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND TRAINING (FDD pages 53–67)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Embassy Suites Franchise Disclosure Document, using the Digital Key system is a requirement for franchisees. The Digital Key system allows hotel guests to open their rooms wirelessly using the Hilton Honors App, essentially using their mobile phone as a room key.
There is no separate charge for the Digital Key system itself. The software for the system is included within the OnQ system, which is the required business computer system for Embassy Suites hotels. The hardware, consisting of electronic door locksets and a programming device, is factored into the construction cost estimates detailed in Item 7 of the FDD.
This requirement ensures that all Embassy Suites hotels offer this modern convenience to guests, maintaining brand consistency and potentially enhancing guest satisfaction. Franchisees should factor the cost of the required hardware into their initial investment, as it is part of the overall construction expenses.