Is landlord approval required for a Sonesta Simply Suites franchise transfer?

According to Sonesta Simply Suites's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if applicable, landlord approval is required for a franchise transfer. Specifically, the franchisor may condition its consent to a proposed transfer on the franchisee ensuring that "your landlord, if applicable, allows you to transfer the Lease or sublease the Premises to the transferee."

This condition means that if the franchisee leases the property where the Sonesta Simply Suites hotel is located, they must obtain the landlord's permission to transfer the lease to the new franchisee or sublease the premises to them. This is a standard practice in franchising, particularly in industries like hospitality where real estate is a significant component of the business.

The requirement protects the franchisor by ensuring that the transferee has a secure legal right to occupy and operate the premises. It also protects the landlord by giving them a say in who their tenant will be. A prospective Sonesta Simply Suites franchisee should carefully review the lease agreement and understand the conditions under which the landlord's approval is required for a transfer.