‘You’ll Be OK,’ Says Marriott CEO to Starwood Members

Marriott’s CEO recently told Starwood loyalty members not to worry, that everything will be OK.

With Marriott’s recent acquisition of Starwood in a deal that’s supposed to complete in June, it’s understandable that a lot of questions about loyalty programs would pop up. But Marriott CEO Arne Sorenson has tried to put everyone’s mind at ease. His message: “You’ll be OK.”

Throughout the acquisition process, the two hotel companies’ loyalty groups, Marriott Rewards and Starwood Preferred Guest, have been vocal with their concerns, wondering what will happen to their rewards and plans. But Sorenson says not to worry—the merger will only create a bigger and better loyalty offering.

“[The combined plan will be] something that is even more powerful for our customers so they’ll say ‘Why should I get a card with anyone else?’ We’ve heard from SPG members loud and clear when they say ‘Tell me I’ll be OK,’” Sorenson told CNBC, as reported by Skift. “You’ll be OK. I want to make sure we continue to earn that loyalty.”

According to Skift, Sorenson’s statement just drove home a point he made earlier on a call with stakeholders about earnings: “How do you take these two leading loyalty programs in Marriott Rewards and Starwood Preferred Guest and create something which is more powerful? The only concern we hear in response to the deal is Rewards and SPG members who want to know their points are protected. The principle reason for the deal is to redouble our commitment to them.”

[Photo: Marriott]