Can Even Hotels franchisees choose any ISP to access IHG Merlin?
Even_Hotels Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
To access IHG Merlin, you must select and pay a monthly fee for an ISP which meets the minimum specifications established by SCH. The monthly fee will include Internet access and support. This access will provide you with an e-mail account and access to sites on the Internet and World Wide Web. You may select an ISP from any source as long as it meets SCH's exact specifications.
IHG Merlin requires a Microsoft Windows based (Windows 10 Professional or newer OS) PC and printer configured to SCH's specifications. You may purchase the equipment from any source as long as it meets SCH's exact specifications. SCH requires ongoing maintenance and support services of equipment that you may purchase from a third party.
Source: Item 8 — Restrictions on Sources of Products and Services (FDD pages 59–68)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Even Hotels' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees can select an ISP (Internet Service Provider) of their choice to access IHG Merlin, provided that the ISP meets the minimum specifications established by SCH (presumably Six Continents Hotels, Inc.). Franchisees are responsible for paying a monthly fee for the ISP service, which includes internet access and support. This access provides an email account and access to the internet and World Wide Web.
IHG Merlin is described as an electronic information library that provides up-to-the-minute information and documentation. It was created for Holiday's various brand groups of hotels and their employees. In some cases, information may be distributed to Brand System hotels only through IHG Merlin. This information can include standards, PMS manuals, newsletters, informational memos, and marketing solicitations.
In addition to selecting an ISP that meets SCH's specifications, franchisees must also have a Microsoft Windows-based PC (Windows 10 Professional or newer) and a printer configured to SCH's specifications. While franchisees can purchase this equipment from any source, it must meet SCH's exact specifications, and ongoing maintenance and support services are required, even if the equipment is purchased from a third party. Franchisees should ensure that any ISP they choose can meet the technical requirements for accessing IHG Merlin to maintain consistent communication and access to important brand information.