Hotel operator models, compared honestly
"Operator" covers four very different deals, each priced differently, so headline rates mislead. This guide lays out how they work, what they really cost, and how to choose the one that fits your hotel.
How the deals work
Franchise, management and partnership pay out on different terms - royalties, base-plus-incentive, or revenue share. Franchise vs management vs partnership: how operator deals pay out →
What they really cost
The headline royalty is the smallest part; the surcharges are the rest. The all-in totals are what to compare. What a hotel operator actually costs →
Soft brand or platform?
A soft brand keeps your name but stacks fees and keeps the guest. A platform keeps your name and gives you the guest. Soft brands vs an operator platform →
Choosing your path
If you choose the platform route, the next decision is how much involvement you want - technology only, a revenue partnership, or full management. Solo, Duet or Ensemble: how to choose → Then see the full structure on the economics page.