How Much Does a Sonesta Select / Sonesta Essential Franchise Cost?

Initial Franchise Fee

The initial franchise fee for Sonesta Select / Sonesta Essential is $65K. This one-time payment covers the right to operate under the brand, access to proprietary systems, and initial training programs.

Total Investment Range

Opening a Sonesta Select / Sonesta Essential franchise requires a total investment of $957K – $18.6M. This range typically includes real estate or leasehold improvements, equipment and fixtures, initial inventory, signage, insurance, and working capital to sustain operations during the ramp-up period.

Working capital alone ranges from $300K to $600K.

Ongoing Costs

Beyond the initial investment, Sonesta Select / Sonesta Essential franchisees pay ongoing fees. The royalty fee is 5.0% of gross sales (Gross Rooms Revenue). The advertising or brand fund contribution is 3.5% of gross sales. There is also a technology fee of $9.

Net Worth & Liquid Capital Requirements

Sonesta Select / Sonesta Essential requires working capital of $300K – $600K to cover initial operating expenses. This is the liquid cash you should have available beyond the franchise fee and buildout costs.