Changes Coming to Marriott, Starwood, and Ritz-Carlton Hotel Loyalty Programs

Apr 25
MorrisseyTravel

Last week, Marriott International made a huge announcement on the future of the Marriott, Starwood and Ritz-Carlton Loyalty Programs. Coming this August, Marriott will introduce unified loyalty programs with one set of member benefits across Marriott Rewards, Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG), and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards for the combined 110 million members. For the first time, members will have access to book stays and earn and redeem points among 29 participating global brands comprising 6,500 hotels in more than 127 countries and territories.

Timeline for loyalty program rollout

April 2018                     changes announced

August 2018                  changes take effect

Early 2019                     new name will be announced

How to earn points

Here are just a few ways you can earn points through the new loyalty program.

Stay

Earn points at more than 6,500 hotels across 29 unite brands.

Incidentals

Earn points across all brands on incidentals (i.e., restaurant dining, room service, spa) that are charged to your room.

Travel

Earn points on rental cars and cruises through specified travel partners.

Meet

Earn points through qualifying meetings, events, and conferences.

How to redeem points

Here are a few examples of ways you can redeem points through the new program.

Getaways

Redeem free nights at more than 6,500 hotels worldwide – no blackout dates. Here is the new free night award chart:

Marriott-Loyalty-Programs-Free-Night-Award-Chart

Experiences

Redeem for unique experiences like going backstage at music events or learning from top chefs.

Flights

Transfer points to over 40 airline partners, gain lounge access, or enroll in TSA PreCheck.

Travel

Use points for cruises, car rentals and other travel partners.

Member Benefits

By consolidating the 3 separate programs into 1 unified loyalty program, Marriott is aiming to bring members:

  • A simplified experience by offering 1 account for all earning and redeeming
  • Elevated elite benefits and consistency across all brands
  • Seamless access to all account details through 1 website and app

Stay tuned for the program name to be announced in early 2019.

For full details on program changes and benefits, visit here.

Changes Coming to Marriott, Starwood, and Ritz-Carlton Hotel Loyalty Programs - Morrissey & Associates, LLC