Tried a search and could not find a discussion of this program so the details are below. I like the double points through April 2004 benefit. As I am Gold the Preferred Plus benefit is not much use. Not sure about how the double points combines with the gold bonus points or other promos - perhaps William can give me some wisdom there.

The invite came via my membership in AABusinessExtra. You do have to enter a corporate ID and wait three days which your app is processed so I guess you need to be a legitimate business to join this program. Since all AAA members get to be preferred plus - why not people that work for a business too - that way no-one gets left out ;-)

INVITE MESSAGE
As an American Airlines® Business ExtrAA® member, your company is invited to join an exclusive new program — Starwood Preferred Business(SM). It will save your company money and allow your associates to take advantage of unrivaled recognition and rewards as they travel around the world. Simply enroll your company today at spg.com/bizenroll1.

AFTER JOINING

Dear Traveler,

Our company is now part of a new program called Starwood Preferred Business(SM). This program is designed to save us money on hotel stays while we enjoy unprecedented rewards around the world.

Join today.* On every stay, simply provide your Starwood Preferred Business membership number, and you’ll automatically save 10-40% off published Corporate rates at more than 750 of the world’s best hotels, including Westin®, Sheraton®, Four Points® by Sheraton, St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection® and W Hotels®. You’ll also enjoy rewards that include:

• An automatic upgrade to a Preferred Room at check-in.**
• The convenience of 4 p.m. late checkout.**
• Two Starpoints(SM) per US dollar spent. Starpoints can be redeemed for free nights, free flights, room upgrades and more.
• A complimentary newspaper each weekday morning.
• Hassle-free awards. Redeem for free nights without blackout dates or availability restrictions.


You’ll also earn double Starpoints (four Starpoints per dollar spent) on every stay from the date you join through April 30, 2004.

To begin enjoying the rewards of Starwood Preferred Business, join today. By taking advantage of this unique opportunity, you’ll help our company save money on travel and enjoy recognition and rewards at the same time. Feel free to contact me with any questions.


Thank you,

XXXXX

*If you're already a member of Starwood Preferred Guest, please call 877-782-0128 and mention enrollment code SPB to update your account.

**Subject to availability.

Offer is valid for Starwood Preferred Business guests only. Double Starpoints (four Starpoints for every dollar spent) will be awarded on all member stays from the date of their enrollment through 4/30/04. This promotion may not be used in combination with other Starwood Preferred Guest bonus offers. All bonus Starpoints will be credited to the member's account 4-6 weeks after completion of stay. Additional restrictions may apply. All promotions are subject to the Starwood Preferred Guest terms and conditions, which are subject to change without notice and can be found at www.spg.com. Starwood Hotels & Resorts is not responsible for typographical errors.
© 2003 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.