Is the licensee responsible for costs associated with retrieving, reviewing, using, or accessing digital, electronic, or computerized communications from IHG regarding Even Hotels standards?

According to Even Hotels's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the licensee is responsible for any costs associated with retrieving, reviewing, using, or accessing digital, electronic, or computerized communications from IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) regarding Even Hotels standards. IHG has the option to communicate policies, procedures, and requirements to the licensee in hard copy or digital form. If IHG chooses to communicate in digital, electronic, or computerized form, the licensee must pay any costs to retrieve, review, use, or access the information.

This means that as an Even Hotels franchisee, you must factor in potential expenses related to accessing digital communications from IHG. These costs could include software, hardware, internet access, or technical support required to receive and utilize the information. It is important to have the necessary infrastructure in place to promptly receive and act upon any digital communications from IHG to ensure compliance with the brand's standards and policies.

This requirement is not uncommon in franchising, as franchisors often rely on digital communication to disseminate important updates and maintain brand consistency. However, the explicit allocation of these access costs to the franchisee is something to consider when evaluating the overall investment and operational expenses associated with an Even Hotels franchise. Prospective franchisees should inquire about the typical frequency and size of digital communications, as well as any recommended or required technology solutions, to better estimate these potential costs.