What is the obligation of a Sonesta Simply Suites franchisee to continuously operate their hotel?
Sonesta_Simply_Suites Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You agree to, at all times, faithfully, honestly, and diligently perform your obligations under this Agreement and to use your best efforts to promote your Hotel. You agree to use the Premises only for your Hotel, and, once it opens for business, to continuously operate your Hotel in accordance with this Agreement for the duration of the Term. You agree not to conduct the business of your Hotel at any location other than the Premises. You may not promote or sell any products or services, whether directly or indirectly, through or on the Internet, the World Wide Web, or any other similar proprietary or common carrier electronic delivery system, except as expressly set forth herein or as set forth in the Brand Manual, as hereinafter defined.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 79–80)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Sonesta Simply Suites Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must continuously operate their hotel once it opens for business. Specifically, the franchisee must use the premises only for the Sonesta Simply Suites hotel and diligently perform their obligations under the Franchise Agreement. This obligation lasts for the entire term of the agreement.
This requirement ensures that Sonesta Simply Suites maintains a consistent brand presence and service level. By mandating continuous operation, the agreement aims to prevent franchisees from ceasing operations without approval, which could negatively impact the brand's reputation and customer expectations. The franchisee also agrees to use their best efforts to promote their hotel.
This obligation is a standard element in most franchise agreements in the hotel industry. It protects the franchisor's brand and ensures that customers can rely on the availability of services. However, franchisees should carefully review the conditions under which they might be allowed to temporarily or permanently cease operations, as outlined elsewhere in the Franchise Agreement.