Originally Posted by
ao40
That is really not the case in the private sector, especially the big consulting and FS firms who are big users of these rates (especially in London). It is seen as a security issue - they deliberately do not put the firm’s name on ID cards, as they are usually electronic access cards which could be lost or stolen. Similarly, corporate credit cards rarely have the firm’s name on them.
I completely understand that IDs aren't a big thing. I straddle both private and public and have ID from both sides. I have also held an ID card from two global banks and sure enough the bank name is not on the ID. I always wondered why, so thank you for explaining that.
Originally Posted by
ao40
I have used heavily discounted corporate rates for many years all over London, and have not yet been asked for ID.
In my personal travels, I've only been asked for ID at a handful of hotels when staying on a corporate or government rate. The TPA Airport Marriott asked me for official US government ID when I stayed there about 2 years ago.
I don't know what will happen if these hotels, car rental companies, or other providers start asking for corporate identification. It seems problematic. Hopefully it will be that only a few locations, of a few brands, are demanding identification and for a specific reason.
From what I can tell, the hotels are adding language which allows them to demand validation of the rate. Here are some examples of what I get when booking under our corporate rate or government rate:
- Marriott (CORP): Please be prepared to show proof of eligibility for your rate (such as a membership card, corporate or government identification card, or proof of your age).
- Marriott (GOV): Federal Govt issued Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Federal Govt picture ID (CAC or Common Access Card)
- Hilton (CORP): No ID requirements listed
- Hilton (GOV): Id-travel orders required at checkin
I would think that if the discount isn't significant then enforcement isn't really worth it. However, if you can get a Marriott for $99 when the rack rate is $198/night, the hotel may be more inclined to verify that the guest qualifies for that rate. I have been at the AVIS counter and a CSR is demanding corporate ID from the person next to me. I wasn't asked and I was on a really good corporate rate.
My point is only that this does happen and it can be problematic for those that work for a company that has great negotiated rates and the provider requires identification.
Originally Posted by
ao40
If I was, all I could do would be to send an email from my work account which at least is clearly from the associated company.
That's my fallback as well.