Meet the People at the Heart of Marriott

Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) launched “Heart of the House” today, giving consumers an insider’s look at the world’s favorite travel company. The new custom-built social platform features real stories, submitted by guests and hotels worldwide, about guest service, community service, innovation, culture and recognition. The launch continues to align with Marriott International’s Global Content Studio global strategy of developing, producing, and distributing content that informs, entertains, and adds value to travel lifestyle consumers.

“We constantly hear from guests about hotel staff going above and beyond to make travel experiences unforgettable,” said Debbie Marriott Harrison, Global Officer, Marriott Culture and Business Councils. “We’re excited to finally have a dedicated storytelling channel to recognize and share all the remarkable things our hotels are doing with the rest of the world.”

“Heart of the House” is live at marriott.com/HeartoftheHouse and features new entertaining and shareable content every week, including behind-the-scenes photos and videos. The site also includes a Q&A series, “Checking In,” that profiles exceptional employees who came up with new ideas that made a big difference, went above and beyond for guests, or have unique roles that might surprise people. Furthermore, a new film series, “Day in the Life” will also live on “Heart of the House.” Each 1-2 minute installment will capture the commitment to service at Marriott-branded hotels by shadowing a team member for one day, whether a head concierge in Shanghai or executive chef in the Cayman Islands.

“Storytelling is an opportunity for us to have an emotional transaction with the consumer and it builds a relationship in a unique way. Engaging content builds communities that drive commerce. At the end of the day, content done right equals heads in beds,” said David Beebe, Vice President, Creative + Content Marketing, Global Marketing for Marriott International. “We believe we will win loyalty as more travelers discover the stories and the people behind Marriott hotels.”

The “Heart of the House” site is now available in English; the Spanish and Simplified Chinese versions are in development with additional languages expected to follow in 2015. Anyone can submit a story for consideration, including Marriott International employees, the employees of franchisees, customers and guests. Visit marriott.com/HeartoftheHouse to see all the stories or submit one of your own.

Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is a leading lodging global company based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, with more than 4,100 properties in 79 countries and territories.  Marriott International reported revenues of nearly $13 billion in fiscal year 2013.  The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 18 brands. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.  

Connect with amanda.waks@marriott.com