This could be Marriott's answer to Airbnb
Airbnb's popularity has soared in recent years, as travelers increasingly seek accommodations with kitchens and laundry during long stays. Although the hotel industry has long claimed Airbnb does not pose a threat, Marriott's new service could be something of an admission that travelers' desires are changing.
In addition to letting people rent homes or apartments for short-term stays, the new Marriott service would let customers earn and redeem the company's Bonvoy loyalty points. The newspaper said the service could be as early as next month. Marriott declined to comment on the Journal's report.
Marriott operates 7,000 properties, including W Hotels, the Ritz-Carlton and Courtyard brands. It has locations in 1[ads1]30 countries, which amounts to more than 1 million rooms. Airbnb has 6 million listings in more than 190 countries spanning 81,000 cities
plan is an incredible testament to its brand. "We welcome them to the space," he said
The company also announced Sunday it's partnering with RXR Reality in New York soon to open a full-service hotel in the midst of 75 Rockefeller Plaza in midtown Manhattan. The rooms include Airbnb-like features, like kitchens and living rooms and will be staffed by "hosts" to help guide guests around the city.
The acquisitions and investments help Airbnb diversify its business as it gears up to go public. Chesky customs the CBS morning show that could happen "later this year."
