What agreement governs an Embassy Suites By Hilton franchisee's access to and use of OnQ?
Embassy_Suites_By_Hilton Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We will provide you with the HITS Agreement (which will be countersigned by HSS) before you open your Hotel.
The HITS Agreement governs your access to and use of OnQ, Hilton's proprietary computerized business system which is an integral part of the System we license to you (see Computer System below.) The HITS Agreement also governs the installation and on-going support and maintenance of your Guest Internet Access (HITS Agreement, Exhibit G).
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 By Hilton Franchise Disclosure Document, the HITS Agreement governs a franchisee's access to and use of OnQ, Hilton's proprietary computerized business system. This system is described as an integral part of the System that Embassy Suites By Hilton licenses to its franchisees. The HITS Agreement also covers the installation, ongoing support, and maintenance of the Guest Internet Access.
Prospective franchisees should note that they must sign the HITS Agreement approximately 90 to 120 days before the hotel opens. The FDD indicates that the current HITS Agreement is included as Exhibit G. In addition to the HITS Agreement, franchisees may be required to sign other related agreements to govern their access to and use of the OnQ system.
The OnQ system is essential for connecting System Hotels to Hilton's reservation offices and travel planners worldwide. It includes proprietary components for reservations, property management, revenue management, and other functions necessary for hotel operations. Franchisees are required to use authorized hardware and software for the OnQ system, and they may incur costs for hardware, software licenses, connectivity, and installation services.