It started with an update to the Marriott website which was inadvertently placed on their rewards page. Someone posted the update to the FlyerTalk forums:
Marriott Rewards has announced enhancements to the program beginning January 15, 2009.
- No blackout dates on points redemptions for standard rooms
- Increase of Platinum member elite bonus from 30% to 50%
- 4th night free on a 3 night hotel redemption using points
90 minutes later, the update was removed from the Marriott website and within 30 minutes of the removal a post was made to the same thread:
"Earlier today, information about possible changes to the Marriott Rewards program was mistakenly published on Marriott.com.
Based upon your feedback regarding blackout dates and capacity controls, we are evaluating potential program enhancements. We have nothing to announce at this time. We’re sorry for any confusion this might have caused and we’ll be sure to provide advanced notice of any future changes.
Marriott Concierge Team"
If this program is eventually implemented, it would be a huge contrast to the negative trend in airline point programs and a bright spot in an otherwise terrible environment for travelers. Higher ticket prices, increased airline fees, and the "cost reduction" changes to frequent flyer programs may be having a detrimental effect on hotel profitability. As prices increase and the economy continues to implode, clients, companies, and travelers will naturally look for ways to cut expenses. Unfortunately for us, airlines have a lock on travel (we’re a captive audience), but travelers have more flexibility in moving to lower cost lodging, even if it means losing out on points. It would be smart for hotel chains to look at the big picture and be proactive about targeting and retaining their best customers. Kudos to Marriott for looking ahead. Hopefully they execute…
At MTP we stress that points are just the icing on the cake, not the cake itself. These days there is not much to look forward to when traveling. Spend your time on the road wisely so you have more time with family and loved ones - that’s the cake.