No, Starwood Hotels & Resorts no longer exists as an independent company. It was acquired by Marriott International in 2016, and the two entities are now unified under the Marriott International umbrella.
The Acquisition by Marriott International
In a landmark deal in September 2016, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. was officially acquired by Marriott International. This strategic move brought together two of the world's largest hospitality companies, creating an unparalleled global footprint. As a result, Starwood Hotels & Resorts and Marriott International are now one company. This merger solidified Marriott International's position as the world's leading global hospitality company, boasting an expansive portfolio with more brands, more hotels, and enhanced opportunities for associates to grow and succeed within the industry.
What Happened to Starwood's Brands?
While Starwood as a standalone corporate entity ceased to exist, its iconic hotel brands continue to thrive as integral parts of the Marriott International portfolio. These beloved brands have retained their unique identities and characteristics, but are now managed and marketed under the Marriott Bonvoy ecosystem.
Here's a look at some of the prominent former Starwood brands now operating under Marriott:
| Former Starwood Brand | Current Marriott Portfolio Segment | Examples of Integration |
|---|---|---|
| St. Regis | Luxury | Elevated service, bespoke experiences. |
| The Luxury Collection | Luxury | Unique, indigenous luxury properties. |
| W Hotels | Distinctive Premium | Design-led, vibrant lifestyle hotels. |
| Sheraton | Premium | Classic, global full-service hotels. |
| Westin | Premium | Focus on wellness and well-being. |
| Le Méridien | Premium | European flair, focus on art and culture. |
| Four Points by Sheraton | Select | Casual, comfortable lodging. |
| Aloft | Select | Tech-forward, vibrant, urban-inspired. |
| Element | Select | Extended-stay, eco-conscious. |
| Tribute Portfolio | Distinctive Premium | Independent, unique hotels with Marriott benefits. |
These brands continue to offer diverse experiences, from ultra-luxury resorts to stylish extended-stay options, all benefiting from Marriott's extensive global reach and operational expertise.
Evolution of Loyalty Programs
One of the most significant changes post-merger was the integration of the highly popular Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) loyalty program. SPG members' points and elite statuses were seamlessly transferred into the unified Marriott Bonvoy program. Marriott Bonvoy, which also absorbed Marriott Rewards and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards, now serves as the singular, comprehensive loyalty program for the entire Marriott International family of brands. This transition provided members with:
- Expanded Earning Opportunities: Points could be earned at thousands more hotels worldwide.
- Greater Redemption Choices: Access to a vast array of redemption options, including free nights, experiences, and travel packages.
- Tier Recognition: Consolidated elite status benefits across a broader range of properties.
A Legacy Transformed
While the Starwood Hotels & Resorts corporate name may no longer be active, its legacy lives on through its strong brand portfolio and innovative approach to hospitality, which have now been integrated into the world's largest hotel company. The acquisition by Marriott International represents a transformation rather than an obliteration, allowing former Starwood brands to reach new audiences and continue providing memorable experiences under a unified global leader.
