Originally Posted by
llbad
I just wanted to note that most of my stays are LNF as well, and I have experienced the same thing as OP at many of them.
"wow, you got a nice rate *rolls eyes*"
"Yeah, I try. Do you happen to have any upgrades available?"
"Nope sorry we're full".
All the while the Marriott site will concurrently list purchasable suites...
Still well worth my time, since super low LNF rate rooms are worth far more to me than regularly priced upgrade rooms.
Unfortunately the web inventory does not represent actual rooms, especially for the higher rate rooms. A property will post availability beyond actual inventory and gladly walk a "lesser guest" for a high rack rate if there is ample availability in the area. And if they feel they can sell a higher rate room to a walk-up, they will do that over giving it away as an upgrade (i.e. airline model).
Some properties/chains have invested heavily in number crunchers, be they people or programs to predict sales. Although T&Cs call for upgrades being offered, many times you have to ask to get a FDC to make the effort to look. I don't think any FDC gets brownie points for giving away a room that could have generated more revenue (Look boss, I upgraded someone to the Presidential Suite and resold the $79 room to a walk-up!). Need to keep in mind the properties are in the business to make money not to satisfy loyalty members.