February 17, 2017 Integration Updates, Management Company Monthly Recap

February Monthly Recap | Marriott-Branded Hotels

Franchise Management Companies | In an effort to ensure all hotels continue to receive support related to the integration, we delivered our monthly Change Champion email to all Marriott-branded (as of Sept. 23, 2016) hotels on February 2. This will be the last Month Ahead Email. Moving forward, all integration updates will be incorporated into the Weekly Update, and Change Champions are encouraged to review The Check-In each week for integration updates.

The email included a few informational items for review. Key topics include:

Vistana Fully Participates In Marriott Business Rates / StarBiz Rates | Effective immediately, associates of Vistana locations and corporate offices are eligible for the Marriott business rate at the Marriott portfolio of brands. The email informed Front Desk Associates that they should accept Marriott, Starwood, and Vistana identification or corporate cards (American Express for legacy Starwood and Bank of America Visa for Marriott) at check-in. Likewise, Vistana properties will offer the Starbiz rate to all eligible recipients. Associates can use www.starwoodhotels.com/starbiz when booking rooms using the StarBiz Rate.
Marriott Rewards Ambassador Service | As of Feb. 9, Elite concierge service will officially be called Marriott Rewards Ambassador service. Hotels should refer to MGS (key word: Marriott Rewards Ambassador service) to review updated materials, a 2017 budget instructions reminder, SPG ambassador service milestone recognition information and note card shipment details (note: shipment excludes The Ritz-Carlton).