They still have Marriott in the name, so how is that distancing?

And how is that relevant? I am aware that they are 2 completely separate companies. Are 2 companies not allowed to take the same approach? Every hotel merger creates one program. Why is the timeshare program different? It seems so silly to maintain different programs. You merge so that you can offer more value to current timeshare holders, and as a selling feature for potential new members. Having separate programs just confuses everyone. People want a simple, easy, straightforward program.