I guess the regions you stay have a great bearing on the benefits.

I stay mainly in Asia/Pacific and Europe and have had a suite upgrade 57 nights out of 57, this year, so far, always booking the lowest rate.

Other benefits include the amenity, breakfast, health club and club lounge access, often internet, bottles of wine, fruit baskets, etc.

This year, I estimate the platinum benefits increased my Starwood value by$12000-$15000.

Each property has a different outlook on how to treat elite members but the smart ones have kept me very loyal. Unfortunately, the US seems to be the least consistent across the Starwood range.

I hope your luck improves.