Commented Mike Leven, president and CEO of USFS, �After less than four years in operation, we�re thrilled that USFS has been recognized for its fair franchise agreement.  Our goal is to treat franchisees honorably and reasonably, and our franchise agreement reflects that philosophy.�

The study cites USFS� franchise agreement for being more two-sided than most industry agreements and for terms that contribute to building good faith and good relationships.  For example, any substantial changes in standards requires approval of a two-thirds majority of franchisees, while in a traditional agreement, changes are made at the company�s discretion.  In addition, in traditional agreements there is no area of protection (AOP); USFS provides franchisees with an AOP that is negotiated with each deal and is valid for the life of the agreement.  USFS� agreement also provides for no unreasonable upgrade requirements and impact fees, and no hidden fees.

According to the AHF, more than 3,500 hotel strategies were analyzed before 144 �Best Practice Champions� were selected.  Best practices range from guest satisfaction to marketing and cutting costs.  The study is the largest the AHF has ever conducted, and it represents the organization�s first collaboration with an industry partner such as American Express.

U.S. Franchise Systems was formed in 1995 by Mike Leven, a 38-year veteran of the lodging industry, and Neal Aronson, former principal of Odyssey Partners L.P., a New York investment firm.  USFS� brands include Microtel Inn & Suites, Hawthorn Suites and Best Inns & Suites.  The Company was formed with a customer-oriented, quick-response corporate culture that has enabled it to grow faster than any other new franchise company in the industry.  USFS also offers hotel management services to its franchisees.