Established
1946
Franchise Units
55
Minimum Investment
$5,000,000
Franchise Fee
$75,000
Total Investment Range
$15,000,000
Home Based
No
Description
The Sonesta Select franchise offers a strong investment opportunity for entrepreneurs and hospitality investors looking to enter the dependable and scalable mid-scale hotel segment in the United States. Positioned strategically between economy lodging and full-service upscale hotels, Sonesta Select delivers a modern, efficient, and guest-focused experience designed for business travelers, extended-stay guests, and short-term leisure visitors.
Backed by one of the fastest-growing hospitality groups in North America, Sonesta Select benefits from a well-established operational system, strong brand recognition, and a growing national footprint. The brand emphasizes streamlined service models, contemporary room design, and operational efficiency, allowing franchise owners to maintain lower operating costs while achieving consistent occupancy levels.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
Sonesta Select stands out as a compelling franchise option due to its combination of brand credibility, operational simplicity, and market relevance.
Key investment advantages include:
-
Established mid-scale positioning with wide customer appeal
-
Efficient operating structure with controlled labor requirements
-
Strong national brand awareness and reservation systems
-
Relevance for business, medical, and extended-stay travelers
-
Support for both new developments and hotel conversions
-
Scalable model suitable for multi-unit ownership
-
Growing demand across suburban and secondary U.S. markets
Background
Brand Name: Sonesta Select
Industry Category: Mid-Scale Hotels & Hospitality
Established Year:
The Sonesta hospitality brand was founded in 1946, with Sonesta Select developed as part of the company’s modern mid-scale hotel portfolio expansion.
Founders:
The Sonesta brand was founded by A.M. “Sonny” Sonnabend, whose vision laid the groundwork for a globally recognized hospitality platform.
Brand Journey & Company History:
Over the decades, Sonesta evolved from a small collection of properties into a diversified hospitality organization. The introduction of Sonesta Select reflects the company’s strategic focus on scalable, efficient hotel models that align with modern travel behaviors and owner profitability.
Ownership:
The brand operates under private ownership with a strong emphasis on franchising, management, and long-term asset development.
Franchise Active Units:
Sonesta Select currently operates 55+ active hotel locations across the United States, with continued expansion through new developments and conversions.
Market Presence in the USA:
The brand maintains a solid presence across suburban business districts, airport markets, and regional travel corridors, supporting consistent performance across varying economic cycles.
Support Training
Sonesta Select franchisees receive comprehensive support across every stage of hotel ownership, ensuring operational consistency and long-term success.
Pre-Launch Support:
-
Site selection and feasibility analysis
-
Design standards and construction or renovation guidance
-
Conversion support for existing hotel properties
-
Pre-opening planning and operational setup
Training & Academic Support:
-
Structured onboarding programs for owners and managers
-
Front office, housekeeping, and guest service training
-
Revenue management and pricing strategy education
-
Compliance, safety, and quality standards training
Operational Support:
-
Centralized reservation system access
-
Loyalty program participation
-
Ongoing performance reviews and audits
-
Procurement and vendor sourcing assistance
Marketing & Sales Support:
-
National and regional brand marketing campaigns
-
Digital marketing and booking platform support
-
Revenue optimization tools and analytics
-
Corporate and group sales initiatives
Ongoing Support:
-
Dedicated franchise support teams
-
Continuous system enhancements and brand updates
-
Operational best practices and peer benchmarking
Ideal Candidate
The ideal Sonesta Select franchisee is a financially capable investor or hospitality-focused entrepreneur seeking a professionally supported hotel brand with long-term growth potential.
Best Suited For:
-
Experienced hotel owners and operators
-
Real estate investors entering hospitality
-
Multi-unit franchise groups
-
Developers with access to commercial sites
-
Investment groups with professional management teams
Business Background:
Prior hotel experience is beneficial but not mandatory. Investors with strong operational partners or third-party management teams are also well-suited.
Investment Capability:
Franchisees should be prepared to meet development costs, maintain working capital reserves, and support early-stage operational ramp-up.
Location Preference:
Ideal markets include U.S. suburban areas, airport corridors, healthcare districts, business parks, and high-traffic travel routes.
Financial Detail
| Financial Component | Estimated Range / Details |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $5,000,000 – $15,000,000 |
| Minimum Investment | Approx. $5,000,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $75,000 – $100,000 |
| Initial Franchise Units | Single-unit and multi-unit opportunities available |
| Land / Lease Cost | Varies by market, location, and site size |
| Construction / Renovation | Major portion of total investment (new build or conversion) |
| Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment (FF&E) | Guestrooms, lobby, back-of-house, and common areas |
| Technology & Systems | Reservation systems, property management systems, brand technology |
| Pre-Opening Expenses | Staffing, training, soft opening, licenses, and setup |
| Initial Marketing Budget | Required for local market launch and brand campaigns |
| Working Capital | 6–12 months recommended for smooth operations |
| Royalty Fees | Ongoing, industry-standard mid-scale hotel royalty |
| Marketing / Brand Fees | Ongoing national and system marketing contributions |
| Estimated Break-Even Period | 24 – 36 months (market dependent) |
| Expected ROI | Competitive long-term returns upon stabilization |
| Primary Revenue Streams | Room |
