+1

That's exactly why most of us are upset. I would say a majority are upset that MR comes out saying they have come up with "enhancements" for MR while sneaking in point increases in the fine print. If you need to increase the point redemption rate due to financial reasons (which you explain): fine. But don't sneak it through and then still claim its an "enhancement" when you get called out on it.

As another topic, I really don't understand the point increases in the first place. The economy is tanking and MR is increasing point redemption? I don't see why that is necessary when points are being earned at the same rate "pre-change" except for the added 20% PLT bonus. I would expect room prices to be lower than last year due to the softening economy. Less demand + same supply = lower prices.

Let's not forget that the hotels have the ability to limit the rooms available for redemption (no matter what the new system is). Marriott is only going to give a room to someone on points if they don't think they are going to get revenue for it. There is no loss of revenue then for giving a room away when you weren't going to get revenue for it in the first place.

What it seems to me is that IMO corporate realizes they have a huge MR point liability on their balance sheet and wants to lower it as best they can by increasing the redemption requirements. That or they expect more redemptions in the near future with the economy and want to "stick it to us."