Newspaper Program Standard Revision
Note that hotels will be made aware of these changes and appropriate ordering procedures via the July 24 edition of the Weekly Update and Week Ahead emails.
U.S. Only | Due to consumer trends, which reflect a shift towards digital subscriptions and smart devices to access news and other media content, Marriott’s newspaper program standard (OPS-FRO-109) has been updated to reflect the following changes, which will be in effect as of August 1:
- Hotels will no longer be required to provide USA TODAY newspapers, and
- Hotels will no longer be required to deliver daily newspapers to guestrooms based on Marriott Rewards member preferences (please see specific brand guidance below and within the standard)
- This change to newspaper deliveries based on member preferences does not impact SPG hotels, as the newspaper preference has previously been removed from SPG profiles.
- The Edition, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, and The Luxury Collection brands should review the standard, as the preferred newspaper selection should continue to be confirmed/offered during the arrival process
- All brands should review the standard for additional details, as well as guidance on club/executive lounge and public space requirements, as applicable.
Updated USA TODAY Pricing
With changes to the newspaper program standard and volume commitment, the cost-per-paper for USA TODAY will increase. Adjustments to current ordering volume should be made, as appropriate, to account for business demands and new pricing.
- Avendra Pricing: Marriott Gross Rate Pricing will be available to Avendra customers at a higher unit cost beginning August 1. For additional pricing details, contact your Avendra representative or dial 1-866-AVENDRA.
- Non-Avendra Pricing: Due to USA TODAY no longer being required, non-Avendra customers will no longer receive Marriott Gross Rate Pricing.
- Non-Avendra customers will need to negotiate pricing directly with USA TODAY, as necessary. To do so, contact Pennie Landon at USA TODAY or use this link.
Marriott has revised additional standards which previously required newspapers to reflect the changes made to the newspaper program standard. Additional information can be found on MGS. Should you have any questions, please let us know.
