The hospitality industry is a complex and ever-evolving landscape, with numerous brands and chains operating under various umbrellas. One of the most recognizable names in the hotel business is Sheraton, a brand that has been synonymous with quality and comfort for decades. However, the question of who owns Sheraton has sparked debate and confusion among travelers and industry insiders alike. In this article, we will delve into the history of Sheraton, its current ownership, and the relationship between Sheraton, Marriott, and Hilton.
Introduction to Sheraton
Sheraton is a global hotel chain with a rich history dating back to 1937. Founded by Ernest Henderson and Robert Moore, the first Sheraton hotel opened in Springfield, Massachusetts. Over the years, the brand has undergone significant transformations, expansions, and changes in ownership. Today, Sheraton is one of the largest hotel chains in the world, with over 450 properties in more than 70 countries.
A Brief History of Sheraton’s Ownership
To understand the current ownership of Sheraton, it is essential to examine the brand’s history. In the 1960s, Sheraton was acquired by the ITT Corporation, a multinational conglomerate. During this period, Sheraton experienced rapid expansion, both domestically and internationally. In 1998, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. acquired Sheraton, along with other brands such as Westin and St. Regis. This acquisition marked a significant turning point in Sheraton’s history, as it became part of a larger hospitality portfolio.
The Marriott Acquisition
In 2016, Marriott International announced its intention to acquire Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. in a deal worth approximately $13.6 billion. The acquisition was completed in September 2016, and as a result, Marriott became the largest hotel chain in the world. Marriott’s acquisition of Starwood meant that Sheraton, along with other Starwood brands, became part of the Marriott portfolio. This move had significant implications for the hospitality industry, as it created a massive hotel chain with unparalleled global reach.
Marriott’s Ownership of Sheraton
Today, Sheraton is a subsidiary of Marriott International, operating as one of the company’s 30 brands. Marriott’s ownership of Sheraton has resulted in significant investments in the brand, including renovations, rebranding, and expansion into new markets. As part of the Marriott family, Sheraton has access to a vast network of properties, loyalty programs, and marketing resources. This affiliation has enabled Sheraton to maintain its position as a leading hotel chain, while also benefiting from Marriott’s global scale and expertise.
Relationship Between Sheraton and Hilton
While Sheraton is owned by Marriott, it is essential to address the relationship between Sheraton and Hilton. Hilton Worldwide is a separate and competing hotel chain, with its own portfolio of brands, including Hilton, Conrad, and DoubleTree. Although Hilton and Marriott are rivals in the hospitality industry, they do not have a direct ownership relationship with Sheraton. Hilton has its own distinct brands and properties, and it operates independently of Marriott and Sheraton.
Comparison of Marriott and Hilton
To provide context, it is useful to compare Marriott and Hilton, the two largest hotel chains in the world. Both companies have a significant presence globally, with thousands of properties and a wide range of brands. Marriott’s acquisition of Starwood and its subsequent expansion have positioned the company as the largest hotel chain, with over 7,000 properties worldwide. Hilton, on the other hand, has a portfolio of over 5,700 properties, with a strong focus on luxury and upscale brands. While both companies have their strengths and weaknesses, they are ultimately competitors in the hospitality industry.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sheraton is owned by Marriott International, as a result of Marriott’s acquisition of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. in 2016. Marriott’s ownership has brought significant investments and resources to the Sheraton brand, enabling it to maintain its position as a leading hotel chain. While Hilton is a competing hotel chain, it does not have a direct ownership relationship with Sheraton. As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, it is essential to understand the complex relationships between hotel chains and their brands. By recognizing the ownership and affiliations of major hotel chains like Sheraton, travelers and industry professionals can make informed decisions and navigate the ever-changing landscape of the hospitality industry.
| Hotel Chain | Number of Properties | Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Marriott International | Over 7,000 | Sheraton, Westin, St. Regis, and 27 others |
| Hilton Worldwide | Over 5,700 | Hilton, Conrad, DoubleTree, and 12 others |
- Marriott International is the largest hotel chain in the world, with a diverse portfolio of brands and properties.
- Hilton Worldwide is a competing hotel chain, with a strong focus on luxury and upscale brands, and a significant global presence.
By understanding the ownership and relationships between major hotel chains, travelers and industry professionals can better navigate the complex hospitality landscape and make informed decisions about their accommodations and loyalty programs. As the industry continues to evolve, it is essential to stay informed about the latest developments and changes in the world of hospitality.
Is Sheraton owned by Marriott or Hilton?
Sheraton is a well-known hotel chain with a rich history, and its ownership has changed over the years. Currently, Sheraton is owned by Marriott International, one of the largest hospitality companies in the world. Marriott acquired Sheraton as part of its purchase of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide in 2016. This acquisition brought together some of the most iconic hotel brands, including Sheraton, Westin, and St. Regis, under the Marriott umbrella.
The acquisition of Starwood by Marriott created a hospitality giant with a vast portfolio of brands, properties, and loyalty programs. As a result, Sheraton is now part of the Marriott family, which offers guests a wide range of benefits, including access to Marriott’s loyalty program, Bonvoy. This means that guests can earn and redeem points at Sheraton properties, as well as enjoy other perks and privileges associated with the Marriott brand. With its new ownership, Sheraton continues to operate as a distinct brand, offering its unique blend of comfort, style, and service to travelers around the world.
What is the history of Sheraton Hotels & Resorts?
Sheraton Hotels & Resorts has a long and storied history that dates back to 1937, when the first Sheraton hotel opened in Springfield, Massachusetts. The brand was founded by Ernest Henderson and Robert Moore, who had a vision to create a chain of hotels that would offer high-quality accommodations and exceptional service to travelers. Over the years, Sheraton expanded rapidly, and by the 1960s, it had become one of the largest hotel chains in the world. In 1998, Sheraton merged with ITT Corporation, which later spun off its hotel business to form Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide.
In 2016, Marriott International acquired Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, including the Sheraton brand, in a deal worth $13.3 billion. Today, Sheraton is one of the largest and most recognized hotel brands in the world, with over 450 properties in more than 70 countries. Despite changes in ownership, Sheraton has remained committed to its core values of comfort, style, and service, and continues to innovate and evolve to meet the changing needs of travelers. With its rich history, global presence, and dedication to excellence, Sheraton remains a popular choice for business and leisure travelers alike.
How does Marriott’s ownership affect Sheraton’s operations?
Marriott’s ownership of Sheraton has had a significant impact on the brand’s operations, particularly in terms of its loyalty program and guest services. As part of the Marriott family, Sheraton properties now participate in the Bonvoy loyalty program, which offers guests a wide range of benefits, including points earning and redemption, free nights, and exclusive perks. Additionally, Marriott has implemented various initiatives to enhance the guest experience at Sheraton properties, such as upgraded amenities, improved Wi-Fi, and enhanced mobile check-in and checkout processes.
The integration of Sheraton into the Marriott portfolio has also enabled the brand to leverage Marriott’s global scale and resources, including its extensive distribution network, sales and marketing capabilities, and operational expertise. This has allowed Sheraton to expand its reach and improve its competitiveness in the market, while maintaining its unique brand identity and character. Furthermore, Marriott’s ownership has provided Sheraton with access to a vast network of properties and loyalty program members, creating new opportunities for growth and development.
Can I earn and redeem Marriott Bonvoy points at Sheraton properties?
Yes, as a member of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, you can earn and redeem points at Sheraton properties worldwide. Since Sheraton is part of the Marriott family, it participates fully in the Bonvoy program, which means that you can earn points on eligible stays, redeem points for free nights, and enjoy other benefits and perks at Sheraton hotels. Additionally, you can also transfer points to and from other participating Marriott brands, such as Westin, St. Regis, and The Ritz-Carlton, providing you with even more flexibility and options for redeeming your points.
To earn and redeem points at Sheraton properties, simply join the Marriott Bonvoy program and book your stays through the Marriott website, mobile app, or by contacting the hotel directly. You can also link your existing loyalty program accounts, such as Starwood Preferred Guest, to your Marriott Bonvoy account, allowing you to combine your points and enjoy even more benefits. With the Bonvoy program, you can enjoy a wide range of rewards and perks, including free nights, room upgrades, and exclusive experiences, making your stays at Sheraton properties even more rewarding and enjoyable.
Are Sheraton properties still distinct from other Marriott brands?
Yes, despite being part of the Marriott family, Sheraton properties remain distinct from other Marriott brands, each with its own unique character, amenities, and services. While Sheraton shares certain commonalities with other Marriott brands, such as participation in the Bonvoy loyalty program, it maintains its own brand identity and standards. Sheraton properties are designed to provide a comfortable, welcoming, and stylish experience for guests, with a focus on practicality, convenience, and value.
Sheraton hotels often feature modern amenities, such as fitness centers, pools, and restaurants, as well as comfortable guest rooms and public spaces. While some Sheraton properties may offer more upscale or luxurious experiences, the brand is generally positioned as a mid-to-upper-scale hotel chain, catering to a wide range of travelers, from business guests to families and leisure travelers. With its distinct brand personality and standards, Sheraton continues to appeal to guests who value comfort, style, and affordability, while also offering the benefits and perks associated with being part of the Marriott family.
How has the acquisition of Starwood by Marriott affected Sheraton’s brand identity?
The acquisition of Starwood by Marriott has had a significant impact on Sheraton’s brand identity, particularly in terms of its positioning and marketing. As part of the Marriott family, Sheraton has undergone a rebranding effort, which has aimed to refresh and modernize the brand’s image, while maintaining its core values and personality. The rebranding has included updates to the brand’s visual identity, including its logo, website, and marketing materials, as well as enhancements to its guest experience and loyalty program.
Despite these changes, Sheraton’s brand identity remains distinct and recognizable, with a continued focus on comfort, style, and service. The brand’s heritage and history are still celebrated, and its unique character and personality continue to shine through in its properties and guest experiences. With its refreshed brand identity, Sheraton is well-positioned to appeal to a new generation of travelers, while remaining true to its core values and loyal customer base. As part of the Marriott family, Sheraton continues to evolve and innovate, while maintaining its commitment to excellence and guest satisfaction.
What are the benefits of staying at a Sheraton property as a Marriott Bonvoy member?
As a Marriott Bonvoy member, staying at a Sheraton property offers a wide range of benefits, including the ability to earn and redeem points, enjoy exclusive perks and privileges, and experience the comfort and style that Sheraton is known for. With the Bonvoy program, you can earn points on eligible stays, redeem points for free nights, and enjoy benefits like room upgrades, late checkout, and complimentary breakfast. Additionally, as a Bonvoy member, you can take advantage of Sheraton’s amenities and services, such as its fitness centers, pools, and restaurants.
Furthermore, as a Marriott Bonvoy member, you can also enjoy benefits like mobile check-in and checkout, keyless entry, and personalized service, making your stay at a Sheraton property even more convenient and enjoyable. With its participation in the Bonvoy program, Sheraton offers a rewarding and loyalty-rich experience, allowing you to earn and redeem points, and enjoy exclusive perks and privileges, while also experiencing the unique character and personality of the Sheraton brand. Whether you’re a business traveler or a leisure guest, staying at a Sheraton property as a Marriott Bonvoy member offers a wide range of benefits and advantages that can enhance your stay and make it even more memorable.