Best Western Launches New Franchise…
11/1/16 – Best Western has launched three brands under its new SureStay flag, using a white label franchise model. This may or may not be a reaction by Best Western to Magnuson Hotels for scooping up Best Westerns that have been left behind (approximately 500 properties according to Tom Magnuson) . Initial projections for SureStay’s growth have 150 hotels online within three years and 800 by 2026. The SureStay umbrella includes SureStay Hotel (premium economy), SureStay Plus Hotel (lower midscale) and SureStay Signature Collection (midscale soft brand). In addition to achieving and maintaining a TripAdvisor score of 3.5 or higher, they will also need to adhere to the SureStay Service Promise, which will include factors such as speed of Wi-Fi connection and standard of breakfast, as well as agreement to surprise inspections. Unlike the Best Western estate, there is no requirement to renovate a property to fit with design or standard requirements, as long as the TripAdvisor score and Promise are met. In its prospectus, the company said that it would adhere to fair franchising principles, including a 15-year contract with opportunity for early termination, areas of protection, advisory councils and freedom to use vendor of choice. This information was provided by an article written by Katharine Doggrell for Hotel Analyst
