Marriott International has finalized its acquisition of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., creating the world’s largest hotel company. Beginning today, Marriott will match member status across Marriott Rewards, including The Ritz-Carlton Rewards and Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG), enabling members to transfer points between the programs for travel and exclusive experiences when they link their accounts. The joint company will operate or franchise more than 5,700 properties and 1.1 million rooms, representing 30 brands, from the moderate-tier to luxury in more than 110 countries. With the completion of this acquisition, Marriott’s distribution has more than doubled in Asia, the Middle East and Africa combined.
Later today, Marriott will launch a microsite, members.marriott.com, where members of the combined company’s loyalty programs can learn more about the reciprocal benefits available, and be able to link accounts. Arne Sorenson remains president and CEO of Marriott International, and Marriott’s headquarters continues to be located in Bethesda, Maryland. For more information, visit marriottnewscenter.com.
