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,"
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.
Please login to Comment