Marriott International and Starwood have completed their $13 billion merger.
The new hotel company now has 30 hotel brands and will operate or franchise more than 5,700 properties and 1.1 million rooms.
The deal overcame its last hurdle this week after receiving approval from China.
"The marriage of these two leading hotel companies means Marriott will deliver an unparalleled guest experience with more hotels in more global destinations, an unrivaled range of comprehensive accommodations to suit every traveller, and the industry’s best loyalty programs,” said Arne Sorenson, President and CEO of Marriott International.
“Providing such a wide selection reinforces our enduring commitment to offering guests an even greater world to explore with Marriott at their side.”
Loyalty schemes
Marriott has said members of Starwood and Marriott loyalty schemes can link their accounts here.
Members who link their accounts will be able to transfer points at a three-to-one ratio (three Marriott Rewards points = one SPG Starpoint) between the programs for redemption stays or on the Marriott Rewards Experiences Marketplace or SPG’s Moments platform.
“Marriott’s and Starwood’s guests have shown tremendous loyalty to our brands and now that we are one company, we are seizing the opportunity to reinforce our loyalty to them,” said Stephanie Linnartz, Executive Vice President and Global Chief Commercial Officer.
“Beginning now, we’re drawing upon the best of our loyalty programs by enabling members to join or link their accounts and immediately receive reciprocal status and benefits.”
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