How are payments for the call center fees made for Sonesta Select Sonesta Essential?
Sonesta_Select_Sonesta_Essential Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
e a dedicated telephone number for your Hotel to connect to the Services. Callers to this telephone number will be able to select a number for new reservation inquires. All new reservation inquiry calls will be directed to our Call Center. We will maintain ownership
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 84)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Sonesta Select Sonesta Essential franchisees will be charged $4.00 for each call received by the call center. These payments are made at the same time and through the same method used for the monthly franchise fees. This call center fee is subject to a Fee Adjustment, which can occur no more than once per year.
This means that franchisees will need to budget for these call center fees in addition to their regular monthly franchise fees. The cost will vary depending on the volume of calls the call center handles for the hotel. The fact that the fee is subject to adjustment annually means that franchisees should be prepared for potential increases in this expense.
It is fairly common in the franchise industry for franchisors to charge fees for services like call centers, as these centralized services can provide economies of scale and ensure consistent service quality. Franchisees should carefully track their call volume and associated fees to ensure they align with their business projections and to identify any potential discrepancies. Understanding the terms of the Fee Adjustment is also important for financial planning.