When booking hotel stays, guests often wonder about the relationships between brands. If you’ve looked at an Omni hotel and wondered if it’s part of the Marriott family, you’re not alone.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: No, Omni hotels are not owned by or part of the Marriott brand. Omni operates as an entirely separate luxury hotel company.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain the connection between Marriott and Omni hotels, including:
The History and Ownership of Omni Hotels
Omni Hotels is a luxury hotel chain that has been providing exceptional hospitality services for decades. Let’s take a closer look at the history and ownership of this renowned hotel brand.
When the Omni brand was founded
The Omni brand was founded in 1958 by Robert H. Rowling, a successful businessman. It started as a small hotel in Dallas, Texas, but quickly expanded to other cities across the United States.
Today, Omni Hotels operates over 60 properties in various locations, including major cities and popular tourist destinations.
Who owns and operates Omni hotels today
Currently, Omni Hotels is owned by TRT Holdings, a privately held company. TRT Holdings acquired Omni Hotels in 1996 and has since invested in its growth and expansion.
As the owner, TRT Holdings is committed to maintaining the high standards of service and quality that Omni Hotels are known for.
Key facts about the Omni Hotels company
Here are some key facts about the Omni Hotels company:
- Omni Hotels is known for its commitment to providing personalized and exceptional guest experiences.
- The brand focuses on creating luxurious accommodations and offering top-notch amenities.
- Omni Hotels has received numerous awards and recognitions for its outstanding service and hospitality.
- The company is dedicated to sustainability and has implemented various initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.
For more information about Omni Hotels and its offerings, you can visit their official website here.
The History and Ownership of Marriott Hotels
Marriott Hotels, one of the largest hotel chains in the world, has a rich history that dates back to 1927 when it was founded by J. Willard Marriott. Starting as a small root beer stand in Washington D.C., Marriott quickly expanded into a chain of restaurants and hotels.
Today, Marriott operates more than 7,000 properties across 130 countries, making it a global hospitality powerhouse.
When Marriott was founded
Marriott was founded in 1927 by J. Willard Marriott and his wife, Alice Marriott. The couple opened a nine-seat A&W Root Beer stand in downtown Washington D.C., which eventually grew into the Hot Shoppes restaurant chain.
In 1957, Marriott opened its first hotel, the Twin Bridges Motor Hotel in Arlington, Virginia. This marked the beginning of Marriott’s journey into the hotel industry.
Marriott’s growth over the years
Since its humble beginnings, Marriott has experienced remarkable growth. In the 1960s, the company expanded its hotel portfolio by acquiring several existing hotel chains. Marriott also introduced its flagship brand, the Marriott Hotels & Resorts, which became synonymous with luxury and exceptional service.
Throughout the years, Marriott continued to innovate and diversify its offerings, launching brands such as Courtyard by Marriott, Residence Inn, and Fairfield Inn & Suites.
Marriott’s growth trajectory has been impressive, with the company consistently ranking among the top hotel chains in the world. According to Statista, as of 2023, Marriott is the third-largest hotel chain globally, with over 1.4 million rooms available to guests.
Marriott’s current ownership structure
Marriott is a publicly traded company, listed on the NASDAQ stock exchange under the ticker symbol “MAR.”
The company operates under a management and franchise model, whereby it owns and operates some properties directly, while others are owned by independent investors or real estate companies and operated under a franchise agreement with Marriott.
It’s important to note that while Marriott is a parent company to several hotel brands, including Marriott Hotels & Resorts, it also has a portfolio of other distinct brands such as Sheraton, Westin, and Ritz-Carlton.
Each brand operates independently under the Marriott umbrella, offering unique experiences tailored to different market segments.
Comparing Omni and Marriott Hotel Brands
Luxury vs mainstream hotel focus
When comparing the Omni and Marriott hotel brands, one of the key differences lies in their focus.
Omni Hotels & Resorts is known for its luxurious accommodations and exceptional service. They pride themselves on creating memorable experiences for their guests, with attention to detail and personalized service being a top priority.
On the other hand, Marriott International is a mainstream hotel brand that caters to a wide range of travelers. They offer a variety of hotel options, from budget-friendly to upscale, to suit different needs and budgets.
Number of locations globally
Omni Hotels & Resorts has a smaller global presence compared to Marriott International. With around 60 properties worldwide, Omni offers a more boutique and exclusive experience. Their hotels are often located in prime city centers or resort destinations, providing guests with a unique and intimate atmosphere.
Marriott International, on the other hand, is one of the largest hotel chains in the world. They have an extensive global footprint, with over 7,000 properties spread across more than 130 countries. This wide reach allows Marriott to cater to a diverse range of travelers, whether they are on business or leisure trips.
Hotel classifications and tiering
Both Omni Hotels & Resorts and Marriott International have their own classification and tiering systems to differentiate their properties.
Omni Hotels & Resorts categorizes their hotels into four distinct tiers: Omni Hotels, Omni Select Guest Hotels, Omni Resorts, and Omni Select Resorts. Each tier offers a unique set of amenities and services, catering to different types of travelers.
Marriott International, on the other hand, uses a tiering system that includes brands like The Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott, Marriott Hotels & Resorts, and more. Each brand is positioned at a different level of luxury and caters to a specific target market.
Key differentiators between the brands
While Omni and Marriott both offer exceptional hospitality experiences, there are a few key differentiators that set them apart:
- Omni Hotels & Resorts emphasizes personalized service and attention to detail, creating a more intimate and exclusive atmosphere for guests.
- Marriott International offers a wider range of hotel options and price points, making it accessible to a broader range of travelers.
- Omni Hotels & Resorts has a smaller global presence, allowing them to focus on creating unique experiences in select locations.
- Marriott International’s extensive global footprint gives travelers more options when it comes to choosing a hotel, whether they are traveling for business or leisure.
Partnerships and Agreements Between Omni and Marriott
Omni Hotels & Resorts and Marriott International are two well-known hotel chains in the hospitality industry. While they operate independently, they have formed various partnerships and agreements to provide additional benefits to their customers.
Let’s take a closer look at some of these collaborations:
Cross-brand loyalty programs
One of the ways in which Omni and Marriott have joined forces is through cross-brand loyalty programs. These programs allow members to earn and redeem points for stays at both Omni and Marriott properties.
By partnering together, the two hotel chains offer their loyal customers a wider range of options and greater flexibility when it comes to earning and using loyalty rewards. This collaboration enables travelers to enjoy the benefits of both hotel brands while earning rewards towards future stays.
Co-branded credit cards
In addition to loyalty programs, Omni and Marriott have also collaborated on co-branded credit cards. These credit cards offer exclusive perks and rewards specifically designed for loyal customers of both hotel chains.
By using these co-branded credit cards, cardholders can earn bonus points, enjoy complimentary upgrades, and access exclusive discounts and offers at Omni and Marriott properties. This partnership provides a seamless and enhanced experience for travelers who frequent both Omni and Marriott hotels.
Referral partnerships and promos
Furthermore, Omni and Marriott have established referral partnerships and promotional campaigns. These collaborations aim to encourage guests to explore and experience the offerings of both hotel chains.
By referring guests to each other’s properties, Omni and Marriott provide their customers with a wider range of options and benefits. These referral partnerships often come with special promotions, such as discounted rates or additional loyalty rewards, making it even more enticing for travelers to try out both Omni and Marriott hotels.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of Booking with Each Brand
Average room rates
When it comes to average room rates, both Omni Hotels and Marriott offer a range of options to suit different budgets. However, it is important to note that the rates can vary depending on the location and season.
On average, Marriott hotels tend to have a wider range of pricing options, catering to both budget-conscious travelers and those seeking luxury accommodations. Omni Hotels, on the other hand, often position themselves as upscale properties, offering a more consistent, high-end experience across their portfolio.
On-site amenities
Both Omni Hotels and Marriott offer a wide range of on-site amenities to enhance their guests’ experience. Marriott properties typically feature amenities such as fitness centers, swimming pools, restaurants, and business centers.
Omni Hotels also offer similar amenities, but they often emphasize unique experiences, such as spa treatments, golf courses, and rooftop bars. Whether you prefer a more traditional hotel experience or are looking for something more luxurious and tailored, both brands have options to suit your needs.
Geographic footprint
Marriott has an extensive global presence with properties in over 130 countries and territories, making it a convenient choice for travelers seeking reliable accommodations around the world. Omni Hotels, while not as widespread as Marriott, still has a strong presence in major cities and popular tourist destinations.
They focus on providing exceptional service and immersive experiences in carefully selected locations. Depending on your travel plans, you may find a greater variety of Marriott hotels available, but Omni Hotels can offer a more curated selection in certain areas.
Customer service reputation
Both Omni Hotels and Marriott have established reputations for excellent customer service. Marriott has been recognized for its commitment to customer satisfaction, consistently ranking high in customer service surveys.
Omni Hotels also prides itself on providing personalized service and going above and beyond to ensure guests have a memorable stay. It is worth noting that individual experiences may vary, but overall, both brands have a strong track record in this regard.
Conclusion
While Omni Hotels and Marriott are separate luxury hotel brands, they have formed partnerships over the years like cross-honoring loyalty points. This gives guests more booking options.
Overall, Omni positions itself as a more intimate luxury brand with lavish amenities, while Marriott has a vast global presence appealing to business and leisure travelers. Evaluating your priorities can help determine which brand is the best fit.
