Marriott International has launched a booking platform designed for small to medium-sized enterprises in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
The Marriott Bonvoy Business Ready platform lets SME bookers access discounts of eight per cent on standard rates, including breakfast, which are valid seven days a week with no pre-payment.
SME bookers using the platform have access to a tracking and reporting dashboard while travellers will receive Marriott Bonvoy loyalty benefits such as mobile check-in/key, late check-out, upgraded WiFi access and room upgrades.
The platform offers access to more than 950 of Marriott’s managed and franchised hotels across EMEA with the exception of Bulgari and Design Hotels. In addition, some Element by Westin, Residence Inn and Marriott Executive Apartments may opt not to participate.
Neal Jones, chief sales & marketing officer for Marriott International, EMEA, said: “The global pandemic has had significant impact on business travel this year. However, there is pent-up demand for business travel; while we have all had to get used to working remotely this year, people are keen to get back to meeting partners, suppliers and colleagues and connect face to face. There is no virtual replacement for doing business in person."
Travellers booked through the programme must be members of Marriott’s Bonvoy programme. New users will get a sign-on bonus of 2,500 Bonvoy points for the first paid stay.
The hotel group recently announced it was launching day passes to offer remote workers an alternative to working from home.