Accessibility StatementSkip Navigation BETHESDA, Md., Nov. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ --Â Marriott International, Inc.'s (Nasdaq: MAR) Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President, Development, Leeny Oberg, will speak at the Barclays 2025 Eat, Sleep, Play, Shop Conference, to be held on Thursday, December 4, in New York, NY. Ms. Oberg's remarks will be at approximately 8:15 a.m., Eastern Time, and will be webcast live. To access the webcast, please go to http://www.marriott.com/investor, and then click o ...

Core Insights - The domestic hotel market is increasingly competitive, leading hotel groups to focus on member acquisition and retention strategies [1][5] - Hilton has introduced a new membership tier, "Yao Diamond," marking its first change in membership structure in years, while other hotel groups have also been actively updating their membership systems [2][5] - The rapid changes in membership systems reflect both new growth opportunities and underlying challenges within the hotel industry [5][20] Membership System Adjustments - Hilton's membership adjustments include easier access to Gold and Diamond tiers, while the new Yao Diamond tier has a high spending requirement of $18,000 [2][10] - The introduction of the Yao Diamond tier aligns Hilton more closely with competitors like Marriott and Hyatt, which have similar high-tier memberships [2][10] - The overall trend shows that international hotel groups are differentiating their high-end memberships, but there is a risk of homogenization as many brands adopt similar strategies [3][10] Industry Trends and Challenges - The hotel industry is experiencing a collective push to enhance membership systems, with over ten hotel groups, including Jin Jiang and Huazhu, updating their membership offerings in 2024 alone [5][20] - The focus has shifted from merely acquiring customers through public channels to cultivating high-value members through tailored benefits [7][20] - Digital transformation is enabling hotels to better understand member preferences, allowing for more personalized and effective membership programs [8][20] Member Experience and Satisfaction - Despite the apparent enhancements in membership benefits, many members express dissatisfaction with the actual usability of these benefits, leading to a perception of "inflation" in membership tiers [10][12] - Common complaints include the difficulty in redeeming benefits and the high barriers to accessing promised perks, which diminishes trust in the membership systems [14][18] - The industry faces a challenge in ensuring that membership benefits are not only extensive but also genuinely valuable and accessible to members [19][20] Recommendations for Improvement - Future membership strategies should focus on precise targeting of different customer segments, ensuring that benefits align with specific needs [21][20] - Simplifying membership rules and making benefits more transparent can enhance member satisfaction and engagement [22][20] - Strengthening the execution of promised benefits is crucial for maintaining member trust and loyalty [23][20] - Building emotional connections through meaningful interactions and relevant partnerships can enhance the overall member experience [26][20]

Core Viewpoint - Tribal leaders express concerns that tourism development is obstructing one of the main migration routes of the Serengeti [1] Group 1 - The tourism development project is seen as a threat to the natural migration patterns of wildlife in the Serengeti [1] - Local tribes are advocating for the preservation of migration routes to maintain ecological balance [1] - The conflict between tourism interests and environmental conservation is highlighted as a significant issue [1]

Core Insights - The Ritz-Carlton has launched its second collaboration with Madrid-based fashion label Late Checkout, expanding its luxury lifestyle offerings with a new collection that includes accessories, loungewear, and children's pieces [2][3] - The collection reflects a blend of The Ritz-Carlton's heritage and Late Checkout's playful spirit, featuring a color palette of navy, ivory, and light blue [2][4] - The campaign for this collection is set against the backdrop of The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko, and features actor Josh Hutcherson, emphasizing a cinematic narrative that intertwines luxury and irreverence [5][6] Product Offerings - The new collection includes featherlight knits, velvet Sukajan jackets, shawl-collar dressing gowns, and floor-grazing pajama sets, along with kids wear such as rugby polos and caps [4] - Home essentials like throws and umbrellas are also part of the collection, designed with a vintage travel-inspired globe motif [4] - The collection aims to provide an aspirational yet lived-in style, showcasing thoughtful craftsmanship with a sense of play [4] Marketing and Launch Strategy - The global launch of "Late Checkout: A Ritz-Carlton Story - Chapter II" is scheduled for November 18, 2025, starting with a retail pop-up in New York [8] - Subsequent launch events will occur in Dubai and Geneva, with an immersive "Very Late Checkout" suite stay experience planned from December 12, 2025, to March 1, 2026 [9] - The marketing campaign includes a film directed by Rogelio González, highlighting the serene and cinematic qualities of The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko [5][6] Brand Collaboration - The collaboration with Late Checkout is described as a natural evolution for The Ritz-Carlton, aiming to resonate with travelers across various lifestyles [3][5] - Creative Director Alex Turrión emphasizes the expanded narrative and personal touch of the collection, showcasing how it connects with different aspects of travel and home life [5] - The partnership aims to maintain the spirit of the original collaboration while exploring new dimensions of luxury and lifestyle [5][6]

Core Points - Marriott International has accused Sonder of threatening guest safety to secure financial support for its bankruptcy wind-down [1][4] - Sonder filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, leading to the termination of its licensing agreement with Marriott [5] - The abrupt termination caused confusion and forced guests to vacate accommodations with little notice [2][3] Group 1: Marriott's Actions - Marriott filed an emergency court motion alleging Sonder leveraged guest safety as a bargaining chip [1] - The hotel chain terminated its long-term licensing agreement with Sonder due to concerns over guest safety and security [1][4] - Marriott communicated with guests to ensure their safety and welfare amid Sonder's liquidation [4] Group 2: Sonder's Situation - Sonder, based in San Francisco, operated thousands of short-term rental units globally before filing for Chapter 7 liquidation [5] - The company announced its bankruptcy plans on November 9, leading to immediate operational wind-down in the US [2][5] - Guests were instructed to vacate Sonder properties by 11 a.m. on November 10, causing chaos for those affected [3]

Acquisition Activities - JD Properties has acquired the 102-key George Williams Hotel in Brisbane for an estimated AUD34 million, translating to approximately AUD333,333 per key [1] - The Tang Shing-bor family sold the 45-key Hotel Victoria Tsim Sha Tsui for HKD118 million, approximately HKD2.6 million per key, representing a loss of about HKD212 million or 64% from its 2018 purchase price [2] - The Mercure Hotel Townsville has been acquired by a new entrant in Queensland's hotel investment market, featuring 174 keys and located on a substantial 43,300 sqm land parcel [3] - AB Capital has expanded its Japan portfolio with two acquisitions in Osaka, which will be rebranded under City Express by Marriott, marking the brand's debut in the Asia-Pacific region [5] Property Features and Developments - The George Williams Hotel features a leased restaurant, meeting facilities, and has undergone over AUD1.2 million in refurbishments [1] - Hotel Victoria includes retail space leased to a restaurant and has a total gross floor area of 1851 sqm [2] - Mercure Hotel Townsville offers wellness and recreation facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool and 13 conference spaces [3] - Johor Bahru City Square will undergo a multi-phase enhancement to expand its total floor space by approximately 1,858 sqm, adding over 300 retail outlets and various amenities [4] Market Trends and Strategic Moves - The hotel market in Townsville is characterized by limited branded supply and development constraints, reflected in a tight initial yield of sub 7% [3] - The redevelopment of Johor Bahru City Square is timed with the upcoming Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System expected in 2026, enhancing connectivity [4] - AB Capital's investment strategy is driven by perceived undersupply in Osaka's midscale accommodation segment and growing demand from travelers [5]

Core Insights - Hospitality company Sonder has filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy following the termination of its partnership with Marriott International, leading to the winding down of its US operations [1][2][3] Financial Overview - Sonder's estimated assets and liabilities are both listed between $1 billion and $10 billion, indicating significant financial distress [2] - The company faced severe financial constraints due to challenges in integrating its systems and booking arrangements with Marriott [3] Operational Impact - Following the abrupt end of its licensing agreement with Marriott, Sonder's properties are no longer available for bookings through Marriott channels, resulting in cancellations for travelers [4] - Sonder plans to initiate insolvency proceedings in other countries where it operates, indicating a broader impact beyond the US [3] Historical Context - Sonder was once valued at over $1 billion and had a long-term licensing agreement with Marriott signed in August 2024, which has now been terminated due to Sonder's default [3][4]

Core Points - Sonder, a global short-term rental chain, has declared bankruptcy and ceased operations, resulting in the cancellation of thousands of room bookings worldwide, leaving many travelers stranded [1][2] - The company had previously partnered with Marriott International, which ended abruptly due to alleged breaches by Sonder, leading to its immediate shutdown and initiation of Chapter 7 bankruptcy proceedings in the U.S. [2] - The sudden closure forced guests to vacate their rooms within 24 hours, causing significant distress and confusion among travelers [2][5] Company Overview - Sonder operated thousands of rooms across over 40 cities, positioning itself as a provider of high-end, design-forward apartments and boutique hotels for modern travelers [1] - The company faced severe operational challenges after integrating with Marriott's booking system, which led to a significant drop in revenue and increased costs [2] Customer Impact - Guests reported being abruptly informed to leave their accommodations, with some experiencing issues retrieving their belongings and delays in refunds for canceled bookings [2][5] - The situation has drawn criticism from travel advisors, highlighting the unprecedented nature of a hotel requiring guests to vacate during their stay, which contradicts industry standards [5]

Core Insights - Sonder's partnership with Marriott was crucial for its operations, but the termination of this agreement led to the company's bankruptcy plans and significant operational challenges [3][4][5] Company Overview - Sonder was once valued at over $1 billion and managed thousands of short-term rental units globally, including apartment-style and boutique hotel accommodations [4][5] - The company experienced rapid growth, achieving $143 million in revenue by 2019 and signing nearly 10,000 units in that year alone, which was expected to generate an additional $500 million in annual revenue [6][7] Recent Developments - The licensing deal with Marriott, which allowed Marriott Bonvoy members to book Sonder stays, was terminated due to Sonder's default, leading to chaos for guests [3][4] - Following the termination, Sonder announced plans to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy and liquidate its U.S. business, as well as initiate insolvency proceedings in other countries [4] Financial Challenges - The company faced severe financial constraints, including difficulties in integrating its systems and booking arrangements with Marriott [5] - The COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted Sonder's revenue, causing a collapse in earnings and increased financial burn [7][8][9]

Core Insights - Marriott International has been recognized as one of the top five World's Best Workplaces by Great Place To Work® and Fortune magazine, highlighting its commitment to a people-first culture and excellence [1][2] Company Commitment and Culture - The recognition reflects Marriott's dedication to its core values and culture, emphasizing a people-first approach that has been a guiding principle for nearly a century [2] - Marriott's people brand, "Be," empowers associates to start their career journey, belong to a global team, and develop personally and professionally [2] - Innovative programs like Elevate enhance career growth and retention, with participants being twice as likely to experience job changes within the organization and over five times more likely to be promoted compared to non-participants [2] Employee Experience - Over 9 million employees were surveyed, with those at recognized companies reporting higher levels of trust and opportunities for personal and professional growth [3][6] - The World's Best Workplaces list highlights organizations where employees feel trusted, empowered, and motivated to perform at their best [3] Company Overview - As of September 30, 2025, Marriott International operates over 9,700 properties across more than 30 brands in 143 countries and territories [5] - The company offers the Marriott Bonvoy travel platform, which is highly awarded [5]