Must modifications to the Hawthorn Suites By Wyndham agreement be in writing?
Hawthorn_Suites_By_Wyndham Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
For so long as the Facility remains dual-branded, "Standards" shall also mean the brand standards, brand requirements, specifications, policies and procedures of the La Quinta System and brand as specified by the La Quinta Franchisor under the La Quinta Agreement and the brand standards, brand requirements, specifications, policies and procedures of the Hawthorn System and brand as specified by the Hawthorn Franchisor under the Hawthorn Agreement in the Manuals, or otherwise in writing, and as modified by the La Quinta Franchisor or the Hawthorn Franchisor, in their sole discretion, to take into account the Dual Brand Operation.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 92–402)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Hawthorn Suites By Wyndham FDD, modifications to brand standards must be in writing. Specifically, for dual-branded facilities operating under both La Quinta and Hawthorn Suites By Wyndham agreements, any modifications to the brand standards, requirements, specifications, policies, and procedures must be specified in writing. These modifications are made at the sole discretion of La Quinta Franchisor or the Hawthorn Franchisor to accommodate the Dual Brand Operation.
This requirement ensures that franchisees are clearly informed of any changes to the standards under which they must operate their Hawthorn Suites By Wyndham franchise. By having modifications in writing, it reduces ambiguity and provides a documented reference for both the franchisee and franchisor. This is particularly important in dual-branded operations where standards from both franchise systems must be integrated and followed.
For a prospective Hawthorn Suites By Wyndham franchisee, this means that any changes to operational or brand standards will be formally communicated in writing. Franchisees should pay close attention to these written modifications to ensure compliance and maintain the standards expected of a Hawthorn Suites By Wyndham franchise. This also provides an opportunity for franchisees to seek clarification on any modifications and understand how they impact their operations.