Originally Posted by
khabah
For all intents and purposes for the time being, Starwood is Starwood and Marriott is Marriott. Both companies will continue to develop their hotel portfolios and even when the merger closes in a few months, Marriott is absorbing every brand and will keep them all for at least a while. Marriott's CEO Arne Sorenson said that the plan is to keep most, if not all Starwood brands alive in Marriott's portfolio as they are strong names and will help diversify and secure the company's offerings, and Marriott will continue to grow the Starwood portfolio. For all we know, Le Méridien is here to stay.
khabah
They had also originally said that it was a merger of the 2 companies, then, a few weeks ago, Marriott CEO stated: "as you know, we acquired Starwood hotels" in an interview (already giving up on being cautious on the feelings of the Starwood's side).
I think that the point on the cost of branding is valid and that the LM Rome owner(s) must have discussed this with Marriott, either directly or indirectly.
Since "most" Starwood brands are supposed to stay with Marriott, this means that some will disappear or/and that other(s) will be sold.
Le Meridien became a strong brand and its European theme might be tempting for a European hotel chain that recently went into a buying spree. I agree that 'Le Meridien' brand is here to stay, but we will have to wait to see if it will remain under the Marriott's umbrella.
"Tribute Portfolio" is one brand that is widely believed to disappear, as it seems to be the replica of Marriott's "Autograph Collection". But, for the time being, Starwood keeps signing in properties for that brand.