Marriott to change 628,000 beds worldwide in 2005

The global bedding makeover will utilize over 30 million yards of fabric - enough to stretch more than two-thirds of the way around the world - creating softer sheets, plusher mattresses, stylish duvets, more pillows - and a new fresh, white look.

J.W. Marriott, Jr., chairman and chief executive officer of Marriott International, said, "Together with our hotel owners and franchisees, we are launching an unprecedented bedding makeover, continuing our invitation to guests to experience the new look and feel of Marriott. This initiative draws on the finest designs and service traditions at our best hotels worldwide to position each of our brands as the most luxurious in their segment. And our new bedding is already getting rave reviews."

The company said its owners and franchisees are investing nearly $190 million in the new bedding. And, to speed the makeover, Marriott is offering owners and franchisees a one-time incentive, to ensure that guests can enjoy the comfort and luxury of the new bedding by year-end.

The company conducted extensive consumer research on the new bedding for all its brands. More than four out of five of the 1,000 guests surveyed preferred the new bedding and said they liked the stylish design and appearance, calling it fresh, inviting and comfortable. They also said the new bedding would increase their preference for a Marriott brand.

The more luxurious bedding is the new brand standard for the JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts, Marriott Hotels & Resorts, Renaissance Hotels & Resorts, Courtyard, Residence Inn, Fairfield Inn, TownePlace Suites and SpringHill Suites brands. As part of the makeover, the company is replacing traditional bedspreads with freshly laundered linens, making Marriott's new bedding the cleanest and freshest of any major hotel chain.

The Amman Marriott Hotel has completed the long awaited fitting of the new bedding in all the hotel guest rooms. The hotel is now offering the latest in duvets made with a 90% snow white duckdown feather filling. The duvets have also been treated with MESENTEX against all allergies. In addition to the extra upgraded feather pillows, new foam mattresses with quilted top and inner coil spring have been introduced for the ultimate luxury and comfort.

"In the hospitality industry, the trends in bedding are evolving rapidly. To address these trends, a bedding program has been developed by Marriott to deal specifically with the needs and comforts of our guests and to meet with their expectations. The hotel is particularly excited with this new addition as we are always looking for ways to make all our guests more comfortable," said Vatche Yergatian, the General Manager for the Amman Marriott Hotel in Jordan.

Marriott International is represented by two other hotels in Jordan - the newest Marriott property in Jordan, the Jordan Valley Marriott Resort & Spa and the Petra Marriott Hotel.