Hotel Franchise “Standard Creep” and PIPs: Why Owners Push Back

Chris Guimbellot, President and CEO of Hospitality International, says some franchisees have stayed with the company 40+ years—so he built a Legacy Club to recognize them.

During AAHOACON 2026, where No Vacancy was the official podcast, we talked about what keeps owners in the system and why “standard creep” pushes some of them away from other brands.

🏆 Legacy Club recognizes long-term franchisees, including 40+ year owners
📞 Chris gives franchisees his personal cell and calls new franchisees himself
🗓️ Retention stats: 50% stay 20+ years; 20% stay 30+ years on five-year contracts
🚫 He calls out “standard creep” and unnecessary PIPs as a real owner frustration
🏨 He says owners want room to run the hotel the way they believe works for their guests

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