Marriott completes $13.6bn Starwood merger

The merger sees the creation of the world’s largest hotel group, with over 5,700 properties under 30 brands in more than 110 countries.

The company said Friday that it will match member status across the Marriott Rewards and Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) programmes, allowing users to transfer points between the two to claim benefits.

Marriott has also launched a microsite, www.members.marriott.com​, for users of the schemes to link accounts.

Global expansion​

It comes nearly a year after the merger was first announced,​ resulting in a bidding war between Marriott and the Chinese-led Anbang consortium for control of Starwood.

Though Anbang later dropped its offer, Chinese authorities blocked Marriott’s takeover bid for several weeks in August despite the deal being approved by more than 40 regulatory bodies worldwide.

Marriott estimates that the merger will allow it to make $250m in annual cost savings and kick start expansion in to new markets.

“We believe that Marriott now has the world’s best portfolio of hotel brands, the most comprehensive global footprint, and the most extensive loyalty programs, providing an unparalleled guest experience,” said Arne Sorenson, president and CEO of Marriott. 

“These enhanced efficiencies…will encourage new hotel development. As new travel destinations emerge, Marriott can be counted on to be there.”

The deal already marks a significant expansion of Marriott’s global footprint by more than doubling its presence in Asia, the Middle East and Africa.

The combined group now includes Starwood’s St Regis, Sheraton and W Hotels brands alongside Marriott’s signature Ritz Carlton and Moxy sites.