Does Sonesta Select Sonesta Essential have the discretion to hold all training and the Brand Conference virtually?
Sonesta_Select_Sonesta_Essential Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
expressly informed us in writing at the end of that program that your Hotel Representative does not feel sufficiently trained in the operation of a Brand Hotel, then your Hotel Representative will be deemed to have been trained sufficiently to operate a Brand Hotel.
We may require your Hotel Representative(s) and you (or your Principal) to attend and complete to our satisfaction various training courses that we periodically choose to provide at the times and locations that we designate, including courses and programs provided by third parties we designate. You will pay our then-current ongoing training fees for such training (currently (i) $2,000 per day, plus our personnel's travel costs and expenses for in-person, on-site training, and (ii) $200 per hour of training for virtual training, subject to Fee Adjustments). We will not require attendance at more than two such courses, or for more
than a total of three business days, during a calendar year. Besides attending these courses, you agree to attend the Brand Conference (as defined in Section 4.B) at a locati
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 84)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Sonesta Select Sonesta Essential's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Sonesta Select Sonesta Essential has the discretion to conduct all training and the Brand Conference virtually. The document states that all training and the Brand Conference may be held virtually at Sonesta Select Sonesta Essential's sole discretion.
This means that as a franchisee, you should be prepared for the possibility that initial and ongoing training, as well as the Brand Conference, could be conducted online. While this could save on travel costs, it also means you'll need to ensure you have the necessary technology and a suitable environment to participate effectively in virtual training sessions.
Sonesta Select Sonesta Essential also specifies that attendance at training courses and the Brand Conference will not be required for more than five days during any calendar year. Franchisees are responsible for covering all costs associated with attending these events, including attendance fees.