Does any officer of The Standardx currently own an interest in any supplier to Brand Hotel franchisees?

According to The Standardx's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, with the exception of The Living Company, none of The Standardx's officers currently owns an interest in any supplier to Brand Hotel franchisees. The Living Company may provide some FF&E (furniture, fixtures, and equipment) to Brand Hotels.

This disclosure is important for prospective franchisees as it addresses potential conflicts of interest. If officers had ownership in required suppliers, it could raise concerns about whether those suppliers were chosen for their quality and price competitiveness, or simply to benefit the officers financially. The disclosure assures franchisees that, for the most part, The Standardx's leadership does not have a direct financial stake in the suppliers they mandate, with the exception of The Living Company.

It is common practice in the franchise industry for franchisors to have approved supplier lists, and sometimes, franchisors or their affiliates may receive rebates or other benefits from these suppliers. However, transparency regarding officer ownership in these supplier companies is crucial for maintaining trust and ensuring fair dealings within the franchise system. Franchisees should still independently evaluate the approved suppliers to ensure their pricing and quality meet their business needs.

While the FDD states that The Living Company may provide FF&E to Brand Hotels, prospective franchisees may want to inquire further about the nature and extent of The Living Company's role as a supplier, and whether any specific officers have an interest in that company. This additional due diligence can help ensure full transparency and understanding of the supplier relationships within The Standardx franchise system.