In accordance with the Safe Stay guest checklist released
last week by the American Hotel & Lodging Association, Marriott
International beginning 27 July will require facial masks in all public areas
of its hotels, the company announced today via a video message from its
president and CEO, Arne Sorenson.
"We're pleased to join with the AHLA in announcing a
new industry checklist that identifies expectations and new requirements of
hotel guests nationwide," Sorenson said. "Health experts have made it
clear that wearing face coverings in public spaces is one of the easiest steps
that we can all take to protect one another and reduce the spread of Covid-19.
As part of our Commitment to Clean [initiative], we made it a brand standard
that associates wear masks and set an example. Given the recent spikes across
the US and with guidance from health officials, we are now extending the
requirement to wear face masks at all indoor public spaces in hotels to our
guests, no matter the jurisdiction."
Sorenson added: "We'll continue to review the policy,
following the advice of medical experts… I know so many of us are eager to get
back on the road again. Let's take these simple, preventive measures and make
it safe and easier for all of us to travel by protecting each other."
Marriott didn't indicate whether there would be consequences
for guest noncompliance and didn't immediately return requests for
clarification.