26 February 2024

My Top Picks for Hotel Franchises

By Ronald Smith

I’ve got some fantastic hotel franchise options just for you. Take a look at my top 12 choices:

1. The Luxury Lodge

Imagine enjoying a stay in a magnificent lodge, surrounded by breathtaking nature. The Luxury Lodge franchise offers an unforgettable experience of comfort and beauty.

2. Cozy Inn

Looking for a warm and inviting atmosphere? Cozy Inn is the perfect choice. You’ll feel right at home with their welcoming staff and comfortable rooms.

3. Beach Bliss Resort

If sandy beaches and serene waves are your idea of paradise, then Beach Bliss Resort is the franchise for you. Get ready to relax and unwind under the sun!

4. Urban Retreat

In the heart of the city, Urban Retreat provides a haven for weary travelers. With its modern design and convenient location, you’ll never miss out on the excitement of urban life.

5. Mountain Hideaway

Escape to the mountains and experience tranquility at Mountain Hideaway. Surrounded by towering peaks, this franchise offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle.

6. Serene Spa Hotel

Treat yourself to the ultimate relaxation at Serene Spa Hotel. Enjoy soothing massages, rejuvenating facials, and a serene ambiance that will melt your worries away.

7. Family Fun Resort

For unforgettable family vacations, look no further than Family Fun Resort. With exciting activities for all ages, this franchise ensures everyone has a blast.

8. Historic Charm Inn

Step back in time and immerse yourself in history at the Historic Charm Inn. This franchise offers a unique blend of modern comfort and old-world charm.

9. Sunny Shores Hotel

If sunny weather and beachfront views are your idea of a perfect getaway, Sunny Shores Hotel is the place to be. Get ready to soak up the sun and make unforgettable memories.

10. The Artistic Retreat

Calling all art enthusiasts! The Artistic Retreat franchise combines creativity with comfort, offering a unique experience for those who appreciate beauty in all its forms.

11. Green Retreat Eco-Hotel

For those passionate about preserving the environment, Green Retreat Eco-Hotel is the ideal choice. Experience sustainable luxury and enjoy nature without harming it.

12. Pet-Friendly Haven

Don’t leave your furry friends behind! The Pet-Friendly Haven franchise welcomes both you and your beloved pets, ensuring a fun and comfortable stay for all.

There you have it: my top picks for hotel franchises! No matter which one you choose, I’m confident you’ll have an amazing experience. So pack your bags and get ready for a wonderful adventure!

My Top Picks for Hotel Franchises

Wow, can you believe it? The hotel franchise industry has grown so much in the last ten years! Back in 2010, around 70% of branded hotels were run as franchises. But get this, by 2019 that number had skyrocketed to about 80%! Pretty impressive, right? According to some research by JLL, anyway.

Now, when you think of hotel franchises, I bet chains like Travelodge, Motel 6, Super 8, and Red Roof Inn pop into your head. Am I right? Those are some familiar names, for sure. But here’s a little secret: there are also some big-time names in the mix. I’m talking about the likes of Marriott, Hilton, and Wyndham. Can you imagine being the owner of a hotel with one of those famous logos flashing on your sign? Talk about making a statement!

So, here’s the deal. In this article, I’m going to fill you in on the absolute best hotel franchise options out there. If you’re thinking about taking the plunge and buying a franchise, you definitely want to stick around. And don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with some handy tips on how to pick the perfect hotel franchise for you, considering what’s hot in the industry right now. Ready? Let’s dive in!

The Best Hotel Franchise for Small Business Owners: What to Look For

Choosing a hotel franchise that’s right for you can make all the difference in your business. Here are the things you need to consider, and how important they are:

Reputation Matters (5/5): The reputation of the hotel brand is really important. If people already know and trust the brand, they are more likely to stay at your hotel and help your business grow.

Location is Key (5/5): Where your hotel is located can have a big impact on its success. Think about things like how close you are to popular tourist spots, business areas, and how easy it is for people to get to your hotel.

Support from the Franchise (4/5): You want a franchise that will support you. This means they should provide training, help with marketing, and be there to guide you along the way.

Costs and Fees (4/5): Let’s take a look at how much money you’ll need to invest in the franchise. This includes the initial investment, franchise fees, and ongoing royalty costs. It’s important to make sure that these costs fit within your budget and match your revenue expectations.

Quality and Standards (5/5): In the hotel industry, maintaining consistent quality is crucial. It’s important to choose a franchise that has strict quality standards and regular inspections. This ensures that every guest has a great experience and keeps coming back.

Market Research (3/5): Before deciding on a franchise, it’s important to do thorough market research. This will help you understand the demand for the franchise in the area. Keep in mind that if the market is already saturated with similar businesses, it may be harder for you to succeed.

Flexibility (3/5): It’s also important to consider the level of flexibility the franchise offers. This includes things like being able to customize rooms, set your own prices, and choose your management style. Make sure the franchise aligns with your preferences and goals.

Brand Loyalty (4/5): Investigate how loyal customers are to the franchise’s brand. Having a strong base of loyal customers can lead to repeat business and positive reviews. This can make a big difference in your success as a franchise owner.

I will review the franchise agreement thoroughly, paying close attention to the duration of the contract and the options available for leaving the agreement.

In this era of advanced technology, it is important to consider a franchise that incorporates modern technology solutions for customer reservations and services. This can give you a competitive edge in the market.

It is also crucial to read customer reviews of other franchises operating under the same brand. This will help me understand the satisfaction levels of customers and identify any possible problems or concerns.

My Top Picks for Hotel Franchises

The Top Full-Service Hotel Franchises

When it comes to hotels, a full-service one is what you’re looking for. These hotels offer a wide range of services and amenities to make your stay enjoyable. They might come with an extra cost, but it’s worth it for all the perks they provide. These services can include things like restaurants, room service, a daily newspaper, conference rooms, and even a turn-down service. Some full-service hotels are considered upscale, midscale, or luxury, while others are boutique hotels. If you’re in the market for this kind of hotel experience, here are the best full-service hotel franchises you should consider:

1. Hilton

Looking to invest in a hotel franchise? Well, let me tell you about a few options that might interest you:

1. Hilton

I gotta say, the Hilton franchise is a pretty good choice. The franchise fee is $75,000, and the upfront investment can range from $29,162,700 to $111,963,150. Now, that’s quite a range, but hey, it’s worth it.

2. Wyndham

Now, let me introduce you to Wyndham. They’ve got over 9,000 hotels in more than 80 countries. This is a big deal, trust me. They even offer an awesome tech platform to make it super easy for franchisees and teams to manage operations. Plus, they provide marketing assistance, personalized support, and a bunch of different hotel franchise models to choose from. Oh, and don’t forget, Wyndham has over 20 hotel brands for you to check out.

If you wanna go for a Wyndham brand franchise, the fee is $150,500, and the initial investment can range from $42,112,580 to $69,188,897. It might sound like a lot, but hey, it’s a solid investment!

3. Marriott

Lemme tell you about Marriott International Inc. It’s this big deal in the hotel biz, famous across the globe for its hotels and lodging. Spanning 135 countries, they got over 7,400 properties! Can you believe it? Oh, and guess what? Their loyalty program boasts a staggering 140 million members.

Now, lemme tell you how they do things. Marriott takes a super personalized approach. They treat each franchise like they’re the star of the show, customizing opportunities just for them. And get this, it’s not just the Marriott brand! The Marriott Group offers a whopping 30 different hotel franchise models, ranging from fancy-pants Ritz-Carlton to cozy Courtyard.

Now, let’s talk numbers. If you wanna get in on the Marriott action, you gotta shell out a franchise fee of $120,000 for their resorts. But hold on tight, ’cause starting up a new resort ain’t cheap either. The investment costs for new resorts fall somewhere between $74,129,490 and $117,209,490.

My Top Picks for Hotel Franchises

4. Hyatt – Your Personalized Hotel Partnership

At Hyatt, I believe in creating unique and collaborative relationships with our franchisees. Since 1957, we have been dedicated to bringing personalized hospitality experiences to guests around the world. With over 700 hotel franchise locations in 56 countries, our reach is vast. But it’s not just about numbers for us; we strive to offer specialized properties that cater to every traveler’s needs. Whether it’s the luxurious Grand Hyatt, the comfortable Hyatt Place, or the rejuvenating Miraval, we have something for everyone.

When it comes to partnering with us, you can rest assured that you’ll have a dedicated team of development experts by your side. We work closely with each new franchise operator to ensure your hotel is up and running smoothly. We understand that starting a new venture can be challenging, and that’s why we’re here to guide and support you every step of the way.

Now, let’s talk numbers. The franchise fee for new hotels falls between $60,000 and $100,000. As for the initial investment, you can expect it to range from $13,645,000 to $153,723,000. While these figures may seem intimidating, remember that partnering with Hyatt opens up a world of opportunities and potential profits.

5. Sheraton – Discover a World of Comfort

Did you know that the fee for new franchises can vary quite a bit? It ranges from $85,000 all the way up to $150,000. That’s quite a range, right? On top of that, the startup investment can be anywhere from $53,521,090 to $82,627,590. That’s a whole lot of money!

Now, let’s talk about the best economy hotel franchise choices out there.

When it comes to economy hotels, they offer basic accommodations at affordable prices. You won’t find any fancy extras here, but the rooms and suites are clean and comfy. Think of them as no-frills options that are perfect for families. These types of hotels are also known as limited-service hotels or budget motels. They keep things simple and save money by cutting back on services and keeping the properties small. For instance, there may not be a restaurant, or you might only find a coffee shop or continental breakfast in the morning.

Now, let me introduce you to some of the best economy hotel franchises and motel franchises:

6. Hampton by Hilton

Let me tell you about Hampton by Hilton. They’ve got two types of hotels: Hampton Inn and Hampton Inn and Suites. The Suites are a bit fancier, while the Inn is still pretty awesome for folks on a budget. Both options have got you covered! Part of the Hilton Hotels family, Hampton by Hilton is known for keeping things simple but great. They make sure their places are nice and clean, and that you’ve got free wifi. Perfect for practical-minded travelers like us. Can you believe they’ve been doing this since way back in 1983? And they’ve got over 2,000 spots all around the world. That’s pretty amazing!

If you’re thinking of opening a new Hampton by Hilton, it’ll cost you $75,000 for the franchise fee. And the upfront costs can range from $7,662,800 to $14,821,500. That’s a good chunk of change!

7. Holiday Inn

The Intercontinental Hotels Group (IHG) is the parent company of various hotel brands, including Crowne Plaza, Staybridge Suites, and Hotel Indigo, that you might want to consider for franchise opportunities.

Motel 6

Motel 6 is well-known in the affordable lodging industry, with over 55 years of experience and a strong national advertising campaign. They currently have expansion opportunities across the United States and some international locations for new hotel franchises.

The franchise fee for Motel 6 is $35,000, and the initial investment needed ranges from $2,617,700 to $3,868,600.

Super 8

I wanted to tell you about Super 8, a really cool brand of hotels that’s owned by the Wyndham Hotels Group. They’re known for being affordable and reliable, which is awesome! Did you know that Super 8 actually has more than 2,900 hotel franchise locations across four continents? That’s a whole lot of hotels! In fact, they’re one of the biggest hotel chains in the economy sector.

But Super 8 is about more than just rooms and suites. Many of their locations also have meeting rooms, so you can have important gatherings or conferences there. And if you’re someone who loves starting your day with a delicious breakfast, Super 8 has got you covered with breakfast options at many of their hotels. How awesome is that?

If you’re thinking about starting your own Super 8 franchise, there are a few things you should know. The franchise fee for a Super 8 starts at $25,000. And when it comes to startup costs, they range from $169,270 all the way up to $3,572,460. It’s definitely an investment, but it could be worth it to be a part of such an amazing brand.

My Top Picks for Hotel Franchises

10. Days Inn: A Comfortable Stay Awaited!

Have you heard of Days Inn? It’s a popular hotel brand owned by Wyndham. What makes it stand out? Well, they put all their efforts into providing clean and cozy accommodations. With nearly 1,700 properties worldwide, you can’t miss their famous rising sun logo.

Guess what? Days Inn has been in the franchise business for over 40 years. That means they’ve got tons of experience, and they’re ready to share it with new franchisees like you. They offer training and resources to help you get started and run your hotel successfully.

Now, let’s talk numbers. To become a Days Inn hotel franchisee, you’ll need to pay a fee of $36,000. And the total investment required ranges from $292,634 to $8,281,441. It’s important to be prepared, right?

11. Econo Lodge: Affordable and Convenient!

I’ve got some exciting info for you about Econo Lodge, which is a part of the Choice Hotels International brand. They’ve got loads of hotels all over the world, with most of them in the United States. So if you’re looking for an economy lodging option, Econo Lodge is a top choice!

Econo Lodge has been around for a long time – more than 30 years! And they’ve been franchising for over 20 years. They’ve got a great tech and reservations platform that makes it super easy for new franchise operators to run their hotels smoothly. Plus, they offer personalized training and support, so you’ll never feel alone.

If you’re thinking about becoming a franchisee, there’s a fee of $25,000 to get started. The total initial investment can range from $126,150 to $767,599, depending on the location and other factors.

12. La Quinta

Did you know that if you want to start your own La Quinta resort, you’ll need to pay a franchise fee of around $55,000? That’s quite a chunk of change! But that’s not all. The initial investment for a new hotel franchise location can range from $452,400 all the way up to a whopping $11,052,800. Talk about a big investment!

My Top Picks for Hotel Franchises

How to Pick the Right Hotel Franchise Opportunities for You

If you’re thinking about starting your own business, I’ve got some tips on how to choose the perfect hotel franchise for you. First things first, let’s learn a little bit about how franchises work and the good and not-so-good things about them. It’s important to have all the facts before making a decision.

Now, I want you to take a closer look at each hotel franchise that catches your eye. Go ahead and click on the links above to explore their websites. This will give you a better idea of what each hotel chain is all about and what they have to offer.

Once you’ve narrowed down your options to just a few franchises, it’s time to dig deeper. You’ll want to get your hands on a special document called a hotel franchise disclosure document (FDD) for each franchise you’re interested in. Now, I have to warn you, these documents can be quite lengthy, sometimes even hundreds of pages. But don’t worry, they contain all the important information you need to know as a potential franchise owner.

But wait, don’t stop there! If you have any questions or concerns, don’t be shy about reaching out to the franchisors. Ask them anything you want to know to get a better understanding of what it’s like to be a part of their franchise. It’s always good to gather as much information as possible.

Lastly, let’s talk about money. You’ll need to figure out how much money you can raise to start your franchise. So, take some time to explore different franchise financing options. The more you know about your finances, the better prepared you’ll be when it’s time to make a decision.

What to Think About When Choosing a Hotel Franchise

If you’re thinking about getting into the hotel business, there are a few important factors to consider. These are especially relevant if you’re looking to franchise a motel or hotel. Take a look at the following special features:

Healthy Finances – It’s crucial to find a hotel group that has a strong financial background. Running a hotel can be expensive, and as a franchisee, you’ll need to invest a lot of money to make it successful. Think about the expenses like real estate, furniture, linens, and fixtures. To safeguard your investment and make the most profit, it’s essential to partner with a company that’s financially robust.

The Importance of a Good Hotel Experience

When it comes to hotels, the quality of your stay really matters. It’s not like other types of businesses. That’s why it’s crucial to personally experience the hotels you are considering. Don’t just book a room for a single night – stay for a few days. Take the time to explore and try out everything the hotel has to offer. Eat at the restaurant, use the business center, and see how the management runs things. Ask yourself: would you love to stay in this hotel? Would you choose it over a competitor?

The Significance of Cleanliness

In today’s world, cleanliness is more important than ever. Guests value clean and sanitized rooms above everything else. So, when choosing a hotel franchise, make sure cleanliness is a top priority for the brand. Does the franchisor emphasize it in their national marketing? Also, consider if the hotel’s style includes furnishings and floor coverings that are easy to clean. If you’re renovating an older property, think about whether it can be made pristine without breaking the bank.

Support with Choosing Locations – How helpful is the franchisor in assisting with location selection? How much guidance can you expect? Is finding the right site a strong suit for the hotel? Being close to airports, highways, or popular destinations can either make or break a property. The safety and security of the area are also crucial, especially for female travelers.

The Impact of Covid-19 on Hotel Franchises

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 severely affected the hospitality industry as travel and conferences were significantly reduced. However, times of economic downturn can also present opportunities to take advantage of favorable trends and grab bargains.

  • Discover the most successful business model. A survey conducted in mid-2020 by JLL revealed that economy and extended-stay hotels have fared better during these challenging times. On the other hand, urban hotels have faced significant struggles, as reported by the American Hotel and Lodging Association.
  • Assess financial assistance options. Look for franchisors who are willing to provide discounts and go the extra mile to help alleviate temporary financial burdens. Are they open to allowing franchisees to temporarily adjust brand standards, such as reducing amenities or offering carryout food instead of sit-down dining? What other forms of support does the franchising team offer?

Bottom line: when times get tough, you can still find a chance to start a franchise if you’re clever.

According to JLL, a reliable source, there are reasons why more hotels are owned by franchisees.