Marriott International announced today that it will acquire Starwood Hotels & Resorts to become the world’s largest hotel company with 1.1 million rooms across more than 5,500 properties worldwide.
“This news is a win for the Wausau travel market. Guests of our Courtyard and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott of Wausau will gain access to large market Starwood brands like The W and Westin and as well Starwood’s premier resort network – all under one powerful rewards program with the same access to Marriott’s vast distribution network,” said Chris Ghidorzi, Vice President of Ghidorzi.
The W Hotel by Starwood (above) is the pinnacle lifestyle hotel, while The Westin (below) caters to the health and wellbeing of guests. These are just two of eleven Starwood brands that the acquisition will bring into the Marriott fold.
Starwood is a leader in the lifestyle segment whose strong portfolio of brands, loyal customer base, international footprint and beautiful properties will help Marriott achieve its vision of making Marriott International the World’s Favorite Travel Company. This merger creates a unique opportunity for Marriott to be able to meet the varied needs of travelers, whatever their purpose and wherever they are in the world.
“The driving force behind this transaction is growth,” said Arne Sorenson, CEO of Marriott International. “This is an opportunity to create value by combining the distribution and strengths of Marriott and Starwood, enhancing our competitiveness in a quickly evolving marketplace.”
The companies expect the deal to close in mid-2016, following shareholder and regulatory approvals.
About Ghidorzi
Ghidorzi is a fully integrated design build construction, real estate development, architecture and interior design firm with projects in Wausau, Madison and throughout Wisconsin. The Ghidorzi design build construction approach gives owners a single source of accountability for bringing their project vision to life. The Ghidorzi Hotel Group proudly serves the business and leisure travel needs of greater Wausau with a team of exceptional hospitality professionals across three best in class properties, including the Courtyard by Marriott®, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott® and The Apartments at Corporate Cove, with the Hilton Garden Inn coming soon.
