Remember consistant loyalty can have benefits beyond those specified in the terms and conditions. There are elite levels beyond platinum premiere and some of the criteria are years at a certain level (gold or platinum) and total room nights (that is, since joining the program).

There are several ways in which Marriott customer care people treat elite levels with enhanced guest recognition. For instance, if you have to cancel a night after the policy or need a refund or other service issue, being gold or platinum will definately grease the wheels.

I'm certainly not saying Marriott Rewards is the best program or it's without flaws, but usually loyalty pays off.