Does Sonesta Simply Suites have a formal conflict resolution process for franchisees?
Sonesta_Simply_Suites Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We have established a brand advisory board (the "Brand Advisory Board") for hotels operated under the Marks, Sonesta Hotels and Resorts Marks, ES Suites Marks, Select Marks, and Essential Marks (the "Advisory Board Hotels"). The Brand Advisory Board is comprised of representatives (owners) of owned and franchised Advisory Board Hotels located in the United States and Canada. The purpose of the Brand Advisory Board is to consider, discuss and advise SRLHF on, among other things, the implementation of actions, initiatives, programs and standards relating to the Advisory Board Hotels. We may expand the Brand Advisory Board to include representatives from other Network Brands, or we may create one or more separate advisory boards for participants in other Network Brands. We have the right to change, merge or dissolve the Brand Advisory Board. You can reach the Brand Advisory Board by contacting Jordan Langlois at 400 Centre Street, Newton, Massachusetts 02458, (954) 254-3539 jordan.langlois@sonesta.com.
Source: Item 1 — of this disclosure document for all Network Brands and do not maintain physically separate offices and training facilities for each Network Brand. While we do not anticipate conflicts between franchisees of different brands, we will analyze any future conflict and take action (if any) that we deem appropriate. (FDD page 62)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
The 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document for Sonesta Simply Suites does not explicitly detail a formal conflict resolution process. However, it does mention a Brand Advisory Board, which serves as a platform for communication between franchisees and the franchisor.
The Brand Advisory Board is comprised of representatives from both owned and franchised Sonesta hotels located in the United States and Canada. This board allows owners to discuss and advise Sonesta RL Hotels Franchising Inc. on the implementation of actions, initiatives, programs, and standards related to the hotels. Franchisees can contact the Brand Advisory Board through Jordan Langlois at the provided contact information.
While the Brand Advisory Board offers a channel for addressing concerns, the FDD does not specify whether this board handles formal conflict resolution or mediation. Prospective franchisees should inquire with Sonesta Simply Suites about the existence of a documented process for resolving disputes, including mediation or arbitration, and whether participation in such processes is mandatory.