factual

How often does Sonesta Simply Suites reassess the useful lives of indefinite-lived intangible assets?

Sonesta_Simply_Suites Franchise · 2025 FDD

Answer from 2025 FDD Document

Through prior business combinations we have obtained intangible assets related to our Americas Best Value Inn, Canadas Best Value Inn, Guesthouse, and Knights Inn brands. As a result of the Merger, intangible assets were recognized for Red Lion brands as well. At the time of each acquisition, the brands were assigned a fair value based on the relief from royalty method. As there are no limitations on the useful lives of these assets, we have determined they are indefinite-lived intangible assets that will not be amortized. Annually, we reassess the useful lives of each asset to determine if they should continue to be classified as indefinite and we additionally test the assets for impairment. Impairment may also be tested at any point in which facts and circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that the fair value of the asset is less than the carrying amount. As part of the impairment test, we may elect to perform an assessment of qualitative factors. If this qualitative assessment indicates that it is more likely than not that the fair value of the asset is less than its carrying amount, or if we elect to bypass the qualitative assessment, we would then proceed with a quantitative assessment. The quantitative assessment involves calculating an estimated fair value of the asset using the relief from royalty method, and comparing the estimated fair value of the asset to its carrying amount. If the estimated fair value of the asset exceeds its carrying value, no impairment is recognized. However, if the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to the excess.

There were no impairment losses recognized during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022.

Source: Item 21 — FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (FDD page 79)

What This Means (2025 FDD)

According to the 2025 FDD, Sonesta Simply Suites reassesses the useful lives of indefinite-lived intangible assets on an annual basis. These assets, acquired through previous business combinations, include brands like Americas Best Value Inn, Canadas Best Value Inn, Guesthouse, and Knights Inn. Following a merger, Red Lion brands were also recognized as intangible assets. These assets are not amortized because there are no limitations on their useful lives.

In addition to the annual reassessment, Sonesta Simply Suites also tests these assets for impairment. Impairment testing may occur at any point if circumstances suggest that the asset's fair value is less than its carrying amount. The impairment test may involve an assessment of qualitative factors. If this assessment indicates a likelihood that the fair value is less than the carrying amount, or if the qualitative assessment is bypassed, a quantitative assessment is performed.

The quantitative assessment calculates the estimated fair value of the asset using the relief from royalty method and compares it to the carrying amount. If the estimated fair value exceeds the carrying amount, no impairment is recognized. However, if the carrying amount exceeds the fair value, an impairment loss is recognized, matching the excess amount. The FDD states that no impairment losses were recognized during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022.

Disclaimer: This information is extracted from the 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document and is provided for research purposes only. It does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult with a franchise attorney before making any investment decisions.