What connectivity and integration does Lodging Link provide for Surestay Hotel By Best Western?
Surestay_Hotel_By_Best_Western Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You are also currently required to purchase Lodging Link, a product offered by Comtrol Corporation that provides connectivity and integration of the PMS into other guest and hotel service systems (e.g. Call Accounting, PBX, in-room entertainment, Key Card, etc.). We, AutoClerk and Comtrol Corporation are the only approved suppliers of certain PMS-related installation, maintenance and licensing, and you will be required to make payments to us/AutoClerk for those services.
Source: Item 8 — RESTRICTIONS ON SOURCES OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES (FDD pages 48–51)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Surestay Hotel By Best Western's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to purchase Lodging Link from Comtrol Corporation. Lodging Link provides connectivity and integration of the Property Management System (PMS) into other guest and hotel service systems. These systems include call accounting, PBX (Private Branch Exchange), in-room entertainment, and key card systems.
This requirement ensures that the Surestay Hotel By Best Western hotels can integrate their PMS with various other systems necessary for hotel operations. By mandating the use of Lodging Link, Surestay Hotel By Best Western aims to standardize the connectivity and integration of essential hotel services, which can lead to improved operational efficiency and a more seamless experience for guests.
Surestay Hotel By Best Western, AutoClerk, and Comtrol Corporation are the only approved suppliers of certain PMS-related installation, maintenance, and licensing. Franchisees are required to make payments to Surestay Hotel By Best Western and/or AutoClerk for these services. This restriction on suppliers means franchisees must use these specific providers for PMS-related services, potentially limiting their options and ability to negotiate pricing. However, it also ensures that the PMS and related systems are properly installed and maintained, aligning with Surestay Hotel By Best Western's standards.