Are the initial brand training fees refundable for a Sonesta Select Sonesta Essential franchise?
Sonesta_Select_Sonesta_Essential Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
e fees will be due when billed and are non-refundable.
You will pay us a fee in the amount of $1,500 for the initial brand training we provide to you. The initial brand training fee is due when you sign the Franchise Agreement and is nonrefundable. In the event the initial brand training is conducted in-person rather than virtually, you must also reimburse us for our personnel's travel, meals, and lodging expenses, which we estimate to be up to $2,500.
Source: Item 5 — INITIAL FEES (FDD pages 23–24)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Sonesta Select Sonesta Essential's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the initial brand training fee is nonrefundable. The franchisee must pay Sonesta Select Sonesta Essential a $1,500 fee for the initial brand training. This fee is due when the franchisee signs the Franchise Agreement.
If the initial brand training is conducted in person rather than virtually, the franchisee must also reimburse Sonesta Select Sonesta Essential for personnel's travel, meals, and lodging expenses, which are estimated to be up to $2,500. These costs are due when billed and are also non-refundable.
Therefore, a prospective Sonesta Select Sonesta Essential franchisee should be aware that the initial brand training fee and any associated expenses for in-person training are nonrefundable, regardless of whether the franchise agreement is terminated or the training is not completed.