Can Best Western modify elements of the Surestay Hotel By Best Western system?
Surestay_Hotel_By_Best_Western Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
s Agreement or other written communication.
"System" or "SureStay System" means the elements, including know-how, that we designate in our sole business judgment to distinguish hotels operating worldwide under the Brand that provide to the consuming traveling public a similar, distinctive, high-quality hotel service. The System currently includes: the Brand, the Marks, the Trade Name, and the Standards; access to the Reservation Service; advertising, publicity and other marketing programs and materials; training programs and materials; and programs for our inspection of the Hotel and consulting with you.
- "System Hotels" means hotels operating under the System using the Brand name.
- "Term" has the meaning set forth in Section 3.0.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 88–286)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Surestay Hotel By Best Western Franchise Disclosure Document, Best Western has the authority to modify elements of the Surestay System. The FDD defines the 'System' or 'SureStay System' as the elements that Best Western designates to distinguish hotels operating under the brand. These elements include know-how, the Brand, the Marks, the Trade Name, and the Standards. The System also provides access to the Reservation Service, advertising, publicity and other marketing programs and materials, training programs and materials, and programs for inspection of the Hotel and consulting with you.
Best Western retains the right to modify the requirements for the use of Marks on any website. This includes the right to withhold or withdraw approval and to modify requirements, reflecting the changing nature of technology.
Given this broad definition and Best Western's explicit right to designate and modify the elements of the Surestay System, prospective franchisees should recognize that the specific components of the system are subject to change at Best Western's discretion during the term of the franchise agreement. This could impact various aspects of the hotel's operation, marketing, and brand standards.