Marriott hotels lights up to spread hope


Maldives
PUBLISHED April 11, 2020

Spreading a message of positivity, over 270 Marriott International hotels across Asia Pacific have lit up their rooms to form a smiley face on the buildings' façade on April 9, 2020. The "Light for Hope" initiative looks to offer a ray of hope to the communities the hotels are in for locals and travellers alike.

Over 270 hotels from across Asia Pacific including, Seoul, Tokyo, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Saigon, Jakarta, Maldives, Mumbai and many more lighted up, forming a symbol of a smiley face in an effort to bring a smile and a feeling of togetherness to those who experience it.

"We chose the smiley face to project a happy demeanor radiating positivity, with hopes that it brings a smile to the faces of everyone who sees it." said, Craig Smith Group President of Asia Pacific for Marriott International.




"In times of uncertainty one thing remains certain - we are in this together, and we will come out stronger. We are all awaiting the time when we can travel again, but until then we are following the guidance from local authorities and are dedicated to continue our support for the communities our hotels are at. Through the various downturns faced over the many years, Marriott International has always stood tall by relying on the humanity of its associates. No matter where people may be, the light at Marriott International will always be on," said Craig S. Smith, Group President, Asia Pacific, Marriott International. 

Throughout April, guests and travellers can view the "Light for Hope" initiative at select Marriott International hotels across Asia Pacific.

The company is taking numerous proactive steps to mitigate the negative financial and operational impacts of COVID-19. Business contingency plans have been implemented and will continue to be adjusted in response to the global situation. At the property level, contingency plans include measures such as closing food and beverage outlets, reducing staff and closing floors or even entire hotels. The company has also temporarily deferred most brand standards to help owners and franchisees, including delaying renovations due in 2020 by one year, deferring required furniture, fixtures and equipment funding and suspending brand standard audits.

At the corporate level, these steps include making significant cuts in senior executive salaries, requiring temporary leaves in North America, shortening work weeks around the world and cancelling non-essential travel and spending. Marriott estimates these cost cutting measures will reduce 2020 corporate general and administrative costs by at least $140 million. As additional measures continue to be implemented, this number is expected to grow. 

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