Who specifies the alterations I must make to my hotel to distinguish it from a Sonesta Simply Suites after termination or expiration?
Sonesta_Simply_Suites Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- d. you agree promptly and at your own expense to make the alterations we specify in the Brand Manual (or otherwise in writing) to distinguish your Hotel clearly from its former appearance and from other Brand Hotels to prevent public confusion;
(2) De-Identification Damages. If within 30 days after the termination or expiration of this Agreement, you fail to comply with your obligations under Section 14.C.(2), we or our agents, at your expense, may enter the Premises of your Hotel to comply with the provisions of Section 14.C.(2), without being deemed guilty of or liable for trespass or any other tort, and make or cause to be made such changes at your expense. You will pay us $500 for each day in which you are in breach of your de-identification obligations under this Agreement, plus all expenses that we incur, upon demand.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 79–80)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Sonesta Simply Suites' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, upon termination or expiration of the franchise agreement, Sonesta Simply Suites specifies the alterations a franchisee must make to their hotel to differentiate it from its former appearance as a Sonesta Simply Suites. These alterations are detailed in the Brand Manual or provided in writing by Sonesta Simply Suites.
The franchisee is responsible for promptly making these alterations at their own expense to prevent public confusion. This includes removing signs, marketing materials, and other items identifying the hotel as a Sonesta Simply Suites.
If a franchisee fails to comply with these de-identification obligations within 30 days after termination or expiration, Sonesta Simply Suites or its agents may enter the premises to make the necessary changes at the franchisee's expense. The franchisee will also be liable for $500 for each day of non-compliance, in addition to all expenses incurred by Sonesta Simply Suites. This highlights the importance of adhering to the franchisor's de-identification requirements to avoid incurring additional costs and potential legal action.