Marriott International expands access to more than 10,500 rooms under a licensing agreement

Marriott International expands access to more than 10,500 rooms under a licensing agreement

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Bethesda-based hotel company Marriott International Inc. on Monday announced a long-term licensing agreement with Sonder Holdings Inc. that is expected to add more than 9,000 rooms to Marriott’s portfolio and about 1,500 rooms to its pipeline by year-end.

Under the agreement, Sonder’s open and planned portfolio, consisting primarily of apartment-style accommodations in urban markets, will be added to the Marriott system under a new collection called Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy.

Marriott expects to add over 9,000 new rooms later this year and now expects net room growth of 6% to 6.5% for full-year 2024. The Sonder pipeline rooms are expected to be added to the Marriott system over the next few years. Under the agreement, Marriott will receive a royalty fee based on a percentage of Sonder’s gross room revenue.

Founded in 2014, Sonder currently operates apartment-style properties and small boutique hotels in urban markets across North America, Europe and the Middle East. These properties appeal to key demographics, including younger travelers, utilize a digital operating model and are geared toward longer stays.

Starting later this year, Marriott Bonvoy members are expected to be able to earn and redeem points when staying at approximately 200 Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy hotels. Full integration of Sonder hotels into Marriott’s digital channels, including Marriott.com and the Marriott Bonvoy app, is planned for 2025.

Also on Monday, Marriott announced its 9,000th hotel with the opening of the St. Regis Longboat Key Resort in Florida.

Set on 18 acres, this luxurious beachfront property will feature 168 guest rooms, including 26 suites, and will offer views of the Gulf of Mexico and extensive amenities. The resort will also feature 69 private branded residences.

Developed by Unicorp National Developments and designed by SB Architects, Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA Miami) and Dutch East Design, the St. Regis Longboat Key Resort is the largest construction project on the island in over 50 years.

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