What distinguishes a franchise hotel from an independent hotel?

A franchise hotel is characterized by being part of a larger brand or chain that provides a recognizable name, marketing support, and operational guidelines to its franchisees. This affiliation often allows franchise hotels to benefit from established customer loyalty, a wider marketing reach, and economies of scale in purchasing and technology. By being part of a recognizable brand, franchise hotels can lure guests who are familiar with that brand and trust its standards of service and quality.

In contrast, independent hotels operate independently without the backing of a larger brand. They typically have the freedom to create their own unique identity, which can appeal to certain travelers looking for personalized experiences or local charm. While independent hotels may have their operational guidelines, they are not required to follow the stringent brand standards that franchise hotels must adhere to. Therefore, the distinction clearly lies in the affiliation with a larger brand which defines franchise hotels.