The lounge issues are not so much about money as about convenience and service. Restaurants are not made for popping in an out, relaxing, having a little snack of something, reading papers, watching TV, casual conversation with strangers, or eating a quick breakfast, etc. The well-run lounges serve as a kind of haven or refueling stop for body and soul--relaxing, away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the hotel, casual, available as needed whether for 5 minutes or 50 minutes. Some of the better models (mostly overseas) are outstanding for the purposes I mention.

My main criticism is that there seems to be no corporate philosophy or mission statement that guides management's decisions about the CL. What is there about the CLs' purpose that allows them to be closed on weekends? Why are some open? Why is the quality of food so variable? Why would management at some hotels seem to assume that a breakfast coupon makes up for a closed lounge? Why are hotels permitted to close lounges with no advance announcement on the Web site and via e-mail. Why give away soft drinks and charge exorbitant prices for a glass of wine at some and not others? Why do resorts have no lounges?
All of these questions say something about the contradictory corporate view of the lounges. On the one hand they are marketed as an important (and sometimes expensive if one pays to be on a lounge floor) benefit to customers but on the other hand their operation is treated as if they are inconsequential to customers. It is no wonder customers such as myself are confused and annoyed. It is time for corporate to spell out the purpose of the lounges for managers and for customers.
Maybe Marriott Concierge can address this with corporate headquarters to lead to some coherent policies regarding the lounges.
In the meantime Marriott is losing revenue from this long-time platinum member, revenue that I would gladly give them if they fixed the lounge problems.