Marriott International, Inc. is a prominent American multinational company in the lodging sector, managing, franchising, and licensing various hotel, residential, and timeshare brands worldwide. Founded by J. Willard Marriott and Alice Marriott, it boasts a vast network comprising over 8,785 locations and 1,597,380 rooms across its portfolio. Marriott International operates 20 hotel reservation centers and offers a wide range of hospitality services. The company has a rich history, with roots tracing back to 1927 when John Willard Marriott and his wife opened a root beer stand in Washington, D.C., which eventually evolved into the renowned Marriott Corporation. Over the years, Marriott expanded its offerings, including its first hotel, the Twin Bridges Motor Hotel, and the Key Bridge Marriott. Marriott International, Inc. was officially established in 1993 following a split from the Marriott Corporation. Since then, the company has continually grown and diversified its portfolio through strategic acquisitions, including The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, Renaissance Hotels, and Ramada brands, among others. Marriott's commitment to innovation is evident in its pioneering efforts, such as being the first hotel company to offer online reservations in 1995. However, the company also faced challenges, including legal disputes and controversies over its business practices. Despite setbacks, Marriott continued its expansion globally, acquiring brands like Starwood and Delta Hotels, solidifying its position as the world's largest hotel company. Nevertheless, the company faced scrutiny over data breaches and pricing practices, leading to regulatory fines and legal actions. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Marriott implemented enhanced cleanliness standards across its properties and adapted its operations to ensure guest safety. Tragically, the company lost its President and CEO, Arne Sorenson, to pancreatic cancer in 2021, leading to leadership changes within the organization. Amidst ongoing developments, Marriott International remains a leading force in the hospitality industry, with recent milestones including the opening of its new headquarters building in Bethesda, Maryland, and the acquisition of Hoteles City Express, marking its entry into the affordable midscale-segment.

Marriott International - Wikipedia