This thread is from 2007, with significant activity in 2013.

Here's Marriott's current description of Marriott Brands ("4,000+ Destinations. 78 Countries. 19 Hotel Brands"):

http://www.marriott.com/marriott-brands.mi

Marriott's list above includes brands that are missing from BrightlyBob's list (Bulgari, Moxy).

Marriott's list is heavy on marketing hype ("Travel should be inspiring, and inspiration is exactly what you’ll find at Renaissance Hotels worldwide") and light on describing actual physical attributes and brand standards.

I understand why Marriott has 19 brands, but that seems like too many. People on this forum probably understand the rationale for each brand, but many of the brands (and how they compare) have little meaning to typical business and leisure travelers.

Does Marriott really need four "select service" brands (Courtyard, Fairfield Inn & Suites, AC Hotels, Springhill Suites) in the United States plus one more (Moxy) in Europe? Although they each have distinguishing characteristics, they really all compete with each other and with other companies' brands in the sector below full-service. "Suites" at Springhill Suites are similar to "suites" at Fairfield Inn & Suites. Courtyard and Fairfield Inn differ primarily in breakfast policy and furnishings/decor.

Some of his brand proliferation is due to acquisitions. Some is due to trying to carve out market niches.