Sep 22, 2016, 11:20 pm
Last edit by: SkiAdcock
Deal closed Sep 23 - http://news.marriott.com/2016/09/marriott-international-expanded-loyalty-benefits/
FAQ :
http://members.marriott.com/faq/#will-rewards-and-spg-be-turning-into-one-program
Will Rewards and SPG be turning into one program?
These are two of the best programs in the industry, and we want you to benefit from everything that makes SPG and Rewards great. We don’t anticipate that the two programs will come together before 2018, and we will keep you informed of any updates. In the meantime, there’s no change to how you book reservations, manage your accounts or earn Elite night credits, points and miles in the current programs
Status Matches
MR Platinum <--> SPG Platinum
MR Gold <--> SPG Gold
MR Silver <--> SPG Preferred Plus
MR Member <--> SPG Preferred
If your status changes (i.e. Gold->Plat) in one program, your status in the other program will be automatically upgraded within 24 hours per Marriott FAQ
You can now link your Marriott Rewards or Ritz-Carlton Rewards account with your SPG account.
To link your accounts, log in to either account at:
http://www.spg.com/linkmarriott
http://members.marriott.com/
It will be a 3:1 transfer ratio between MR-SPG
If I have Lifetime Status in one of the programs, will I also get it in the other program when I link my accounts?
This is the Official Answer : "We appreciate your loyalty! Lifetime Status is specific to the program that you earned it in. While linking accounts will not result in Lifetime Status in the other program, your Elite status will be matched to the same Elite tier in the other program. Any existing Lifetime Status you already hold within either program will still be enjoyed within that program. We’re working on more ways to recognize your loyalty and Lifetime Status as we work towards harmonizing the programs, which we don’t anticipate happening until 2018."
Transferring points from SPG to MR does NOT change lifetime MR points.
Transferring points from SPG to MR does NOT count as activity & therefore does not extend the expiration date of points.
SPG platinum member matched to MR plat and now interested in the MR - UA Silver status match ? Check here.
Updated Terms and Conditions for the two programs can be found at
http://members.marriott.com/terms-conditions/
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/preferredguest/legal/spg_terms.html
Complete listing of all the hotel brands in the in the merged company :
http://www.marriott.com/marriott-brands.mi#ourbrands
http://www.marriott.com/Images/Brands/brands_page_2016/global_architecture_images/US_MAR_SPG_brand_architecture.png
FAQ :
http://members.marriott.com/faq/#will-rewards-and-spg-be-turning-into-one-program
Will Rewards and SPG be turning into one program?
These are two of the best programs in the industry, and we want you to benefit from everything that makes SPG and Rewards great. We don’t anticipate that the two programs will come together before 2018, and we will keep you informed of any updates. In the meantime, there’s no change to how you book reservations, manage your accounts or earn Elite night credits, points and miles in the current programs
Status Matches
MR Platinum <--> SPG Platinum
MR Gold <--> SPG Gold
MR Silver <--> SPG Preferred Plus
MR Member <--> SPG Preferred
If your status changes (i.e. Gold->Plat) in one program, your status in the other program will be automatically upgraded within 24 hours per Marriott FAQ
You can now link your Marriott Rewards or Ritz-Carlton Rewards account with your SPG account.
To link your accounts, log in to either account at:
http://www.spg.com/linkmarriott
http://members.marriott.com/
It will be a 3:1 transfer ratio between MR-SPG
If I have Lifetime Status in one of the programs, will I also get it in the other program when I link my accounts?
This is the Official Answer : "We appreciate your loyalty! Lifetime Status is specific to the program that you earned it in. While linking accounts will not result in Lifetime Status in the other program, your Elite status will be matched to the same Elite tier in the other program. Any existing Lifetime Status you already hold within either program will still be enjoyed within that program. We’re working on more ways to recognize your loyalty and Lifetime Status as we work towards harmonizing the programs, which we don’t anticipate happening until 2018."
Transferring points from SPG to MR does NOT change lifetime MR points.
Transferring points from SPG to MR does NOT count as activity & therefore does not extend the expiration date of points.
SPG platinum member matched to MR plat and now interested in the MR - UA Silver status match ? Check here.
Updated Terms and Conditions for the two programs can be found at
http://members.marriott.com/terms-conditions/
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/preferredguest/legal/spg_terms.html
Complete listing of all the hotel brands in the in the merged company :
http://www.marriott.com/marriott-brands.mi#ourbrands
http://www.marriott.com/Images/Brands/brands_page_2016/global_architecture_images/US_MAR_SPG_brand_architecture.png
Marriott/Starwood merger closed; FAQs; Status Match; MR & SPG accounts can be linked
Sep 23, 2016, 2:13 am
#46
Join Date: Jan 2008
Location: JFK, DCA, BUR, YVR
Programs: AC, AS, BA, DL, HH (D), MR (T/LTP), UA (*S), UScAAre (PLT/1,87MM), WN
Posts: 5,207
I'm not so sure... I kind of get the sense a NEW program will be created in 2018 (let's call it MPG)... And as a result of MPG, everyone, in all 3 current programs will lose any LT benefits... Perhaps a fast-track for ex-LT's to the same new MPG LT status, but as a rule - everyone gets knocked back down.
So on the positive side, I don't think it will be only SPG who get knifed... But on the negative side, it will be everyone.
I am hoping, however, that the resultant backlash from their most loyal core would prevent them doing anything so foolish. Everyone seems as though they are pleasantly surprised so far... Let's hope the same applies into 2018.
So on the positive side, I don't think it will be only SPG who get knifed... But on the negative side, it will be everyone.
I am hoping, however, that the resultant backlash from their most loyal core would prevent them doing anything so foolish. Everyone seems as though they are pleasantly surprised so far... Let's hope the same applies into 2018.
The whole point of a honeymoon period is to lull people into complacency before the knives come out, and they gut everything to shreds. There may very well be a new programme on the horizon, but LT SPG members will be at the bottom of the pecking order. From what I understand, there aren't nearly as many LT SPG members, so who knows for certain. Regardless, the language indicates we will be defenestrated.
Sep 23, 2016, 2:16 am
#47
Join Date: Feb 2013
Location: Miami, FL
Programs: UA 1MM, AA Plat, Marriott LT Titanium, Hyatt Glob, IHG ♢ Amb, Hilton ♢, Hertz Pres
Posts: 6,015
I'm just wondering if there is a possibility that one could shoot oneself in the foot by matching. E.g., I'm an SPG Lifetime Plat, but barely have any activity in my Marriott account (am also Hyatt Diamond, HHonors Diamond, LHW Unlimited, IC RA/Spire, so haven't had time for Marriott 
). If I link the accounts and they see that the combined activity is not above the 750 nights for Marriott Lifetime Plat, perhaps they will let the SPG Lifetime Plat die with the end of SPG?
). If I link the accounts and they see that the combined activity is not above the 750 nights for Marriott Lifetime Plat, perhaps they will let the SPG Lifetime Plat die with the end of SPG?
Sep 23, 2016, 2:21 am
#48
Join Date: Feb 2013
Location: Miami, FL
Programs: UA 1MM, AA Plat, Marriott LT Titanium, Hyatt Glob, IHG ♢ Amb, Hilton ♢, Hertz Pres
Posts: 6,015
If you believe this, then I've got a bridge to sell you. The whole point of a honeymoon period is to lull people into complacency before the knives come out, and they gut everything to shreds. There may very well be a new programme on the horizon, but LT SPG members will be at the bottom of the pecking order. From what I understand, there aren't nearly as many LT SPG members, so who knows for certain. Regardless, the language indicates we will be defenestrated.
The whole point of a honeymoon period is to lull people into complacency before the knives come out, and they gut everything to shreds. There may very well be a new programme on the horizon, but LT SPG members will be at the bottom of the pecking order. From what I understand, there aren't nearly as many LT SPG members, so who knows for certain. Regardless, the language indicates we will be defenestrated."Q: I have attained Lifetime status in one of the loyalty programs already. Will that be recognized in the Status Match to the other program?
A: Don’t worry; you’ll continue to enjoy all the benefits of Lifetime status in the program in which you earned it. We are initially matching your tier status between programs, and when the programs are combined in the future, we’ll consider ways that preserve the continued recognition of our most valued lifetime customers."
That doesn't sound like they are going to knock everyone to zero. That would be ludicrous. Imagine wiping away all their best customer to zero. LOL, cmon.
As for what will happen - it is possible they will institute a level higher than what was allowed under Starwood (perhaps 750 nights will be required for LTP in the new program). And it was only 500 in SPG. Perhaps there will be a new requirement level (maybe it'll be 1,000 in the new program). It is of course possible they go the Hilton route and remove LTP altogether - but that is quite different than starting again at zero.
Sep 23, 2016, 2:21 am
#49
Original Poster
Join Date: Jan 2013
Location: London
Programs: BA Gold / OnBusiness, SPG Lifetime Plat 100, AmEx Centurion & BAPP, Superking Westin Heavenly Bed :)
Posts: 1,142
If you believe this, then I've got a bridge to sell you. The whole point of a honeymoon period is to lull people into complacency before the knives come out, and they gut everything to shreds. There may very well be a new programme on the horizon, but LT SPG members will be at the bottom of the pecking order. From what I understand, there aren't nearly as many LT SPG members, so who knows for certain. Regardless, the language indicates we will be defenestrated.
The whole point of a honeymoon period is to lull people into complacency before the knives come out, and they gut everything to shreds. There may very well be a new programme on the horizon, but LT SPG members will be at the bottom of the pecking order. From what I understand, there aren't nearly as many LT SPG members, so who knows for certain. Regardless, the language indicates we will be defenestrated. (As i'm sure you do!)Nonetheless, time will tell... I'm carrying on business as usual, as I have done since this all broke anyway... I'll find my way in this brave new world and make the best of it.
Sep 23, 2016, 2:23 am
#50
Join Date: Aug 2005
Programs: AA Plt 3MM; UA 1K 2 MM; MR Lifetime Plat; HH Lifetime Diamond; HH Diamond; IGH Spire Ambas; SPG Gold
Posts: 2,149
Most likely they will get the least possible upgrade (meaning better view, no parking lot outside the window), and if an FS resort--complimentary breakfast is not on the menu.
Sep 23, 2016, 2:25 am
#51
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Apr 2009
Location: India
Programs: Bonvoy Lifetime Titanium, IHG Plat, HH Gold, Trident Plat, DL Diamond, AI Maharajah
Posts: 29,648
linked accounts....that was easy....
Sep 23, 2016, 2:25 am
#52
Join Date: Feb 2013
Location: Miami, FL
Programs: UA 1MM, AA Plat, Marriott LT Titanium, Hyatt Glob, IHG ♢ Amb, Hilton ♢, Hertz Pres
Posts: 6,015
As a Marriott lifetime platinum, I have no idea why an SPG platinum would want to try out a Marriott if there is an SPG property available.
Most likely they will get the least possible upgrade (meaning better view, no parking lot outside the window), and if an FS resort--complimentary breakfast is not on the menu.
Most likely they will get the least possible upgrade (meaning better view, no parking lot outside the window), and if an FS resort--complimentary breakfast is not on the menu.
Sep 23, 2016, 2:28 am
#54
Join Date: Jun 2002
Location: BCT. Formerly known as attorney28
Programs: LH HON,BA GGL GfL,Hyatt LT Glob,Mrtt LT P,Hilt LT D,IC Amb,Acc P,GHA Tit,LHW Strlg,Sixt/Av/Hz D/Pres
Posts: 6,823
The other consideration I had was that they might use the data they get from linked Lifetime accounts to base their decision on how to treat the Lifetime accounts of the other program. E.g., if they learn from the data that of all SPG Lifetime Platinum members who get matched to Marriott Platinum, during the year they have the status, 95 % barely stay at Marriott hotels, then they might decide that it's "just not worth it" to match the Lifetime status.
But I'm speculating, of course.
Sep 23, 2016, 2:31 am
#55
Join Date: Feb 2013
Location: Miami, FL
Programs: UA 1MM, AA Plat, Marriott LT Titanium, Hyatt Glob, IHG ♢ Amb, Hilton ♢, Hertz Pres
Posts: 6,015
I read the FAQ but I don't seem to have an answer.. Do I need 50 nights/ 25 stays on SPG stays to requalify SPG Plat next year or do I just need a combined 50 nights/ 25 stays on both sides to requalify SPG Plat?
You are probably right.
The other consideration I had was that they might use the data they get from linked Lifetime accounts to base their decision on how to treat the Lifetime accounts of the other program. E.g., if they learn from the data that of all SPG Lifetime Platinum members who get matched to Marriott Platinum, during the year they have the status, 95 % barely stay at Marriott hotels, then they might decide that it's "just not worth it" to match the Lifetime status.
But I'm speculating, of course.
The other consideration I had was that they might use the data they get from linked Lifetime accounts to base their decision on how to treat the Lifetime accounts of the other program. E.g., if they learn from the data that of all SPG Lifetime Platinum members who get matched to Marriott Platinum, during the year they have the status, 95 % barely stay at Marriott hotels, then they might decide that it's "just not worth it" to match the Lifetime status.
But I'm speculating, of course.
Sep 23, 2016, 2:37 am
#56
Join Date: Jun 2002
Location: BCT. Formerly known as attorney28
Programs: LH HON,BA GGL GfL,Hyatt LT Glob,Mrtt LT P,Hilt LT D,IC Amb,Acc P,GHA Tit,LHW Strlg,Sixt/Av/Hz D/Pres
Posts: 6,823
Sep 23, 2016, 2:45 am
#57
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Apr 2009
Location: India
Programs: Bonvoy Lifetime Titanium, IHG Plat, HH Gold, Trident Plat, DL Diamond, AI Maharajah
Posts: 29,648
Sep 23, 2016, 3:10 am
#58
Suspended
Join Date: Jul 2001
Location: Watchlisted by the prejudiced, en route to purgatory
Programs: Just Say No to Fleecing and Blacklisting
Posts: 102,095
I have some relatives with insanely huge Marriott point balances but few to no SPG points. This conversion will be fun while the fun lasts. Especially as SPG options exist in plenty of places where Marriott properties are not to be found or found so conveniently.
The linking is for the convenience of both parties. Data migration outcomes are more robust when customers reduce the pool of accounts that can be messed up in the course of an automated data migration effort. And data analysis is better when dealing with a more accurately combined data set than when dealing with a less accurately combined data set.
You need 50/25 in SPG to qualify for Plat with SPG. You need 75 nights in Marriott to qualify for Marriott Plat. The programs are not combined in that way, yet.
They already have the data, they own Starwood now remember? Linking is for your convenience, not theirs.
They already have the data, they own Starwood now remember? Linking is for your convenience, not theirs.
Last edited by GUWonder; Sep 23, 2016 at 3:22 am
Sep 23, 2016, 3:50 am
#59
Moderator, El Al and Marriott Bonvoy, FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: SIN
Programs: SQ*G, Mar LTT, Hyatt Glb, AA LTG, LY, HH, IC, BA, DL, UA SLV
Posts: 12,017
Linked my account to find that apparently I also had a Ritz Carlton account and it had stolen my email from my Marriott Rewards account. So my Marriott Rewards account couldn't log with my email, only my MR#. It showed the proper status for my MR account immediately. A few calls to the call center that didn't go so well. Still haven't been able to link to RewardsPlus to get my United status because the email is now considered too new. The rep said I have to change my earnings profile to get the United status?
Sep 23, 2016, 4:12 am
#60
Join Date: Feb 2013
Location: Miami, FL
Programs: UA 1MM, AA Plat, Marriott LT Titanium, Hyatt Glob, IHG ♢ Amb, Hilton ♢, Hertz Pres
Posts: 6,015
Linked my account to find that apparently I also had a Ritz Carlton account and it had stolen my email from my Marriott Rewards account. So my Marriott Rewards account couldn't log with my email, only my MR#. It showed the proper status for my MR account immediately. A few calls to the call center that didn't go so well. Still haven't been able to link to RewardsPlus to get my United status because the email is now considered too new. The rep said I have to change my earnings profile to get the United status?
