Earlier today we posted some rumors about the SPG/Marriott integration. Flyertalk user OU812 just posted the following:
- Names of status levels above Platinum have not been confirmed. MR wants to differentiate status levels above platinum to ensure proper recognition and avoid confusion among front line staff. Working names are Platinum 50, Platinum 75 and Platinum 100
- Instant recognition of status at all levels upon check-in, with arrival points, free HSI, food & beverage vouchers, and choice of other benefits depending on status level
- Spend requirement for all levels above silver. If spending level not reached, but nights are, status is at appropriate level based on spend.
- Gold and platinum 50 upgrades limited to preferred level, concierge floor, higher floors, corner rooms, or view rooms at resorts. (No suites!)
- Guaranteed suite awards (4) per year for platinum 75 and above
- Guaranteed lounge access only for levels platinum 75 and above
- Free breakfast at resorts for platinum 75 and above
- Guaranteed late check-out, 2:00pm for Gold, 3:00pm for Platinum 50, 4:00pm for Platinum 75, Plat 100; resort and conference hotels subject to availability.
- Platinum guarantees: 48 room guarantee remains, others guarantees are gone (platinum arrival gift, bed type, room type, lounge access, ultimate reservation guarantee)
- Lifetime status changes coming. If status level not obtained, lifetime status identified in system. New Lifetime Level above Platinum will be added in 2019! Benefits reduced to upgrade to preferred floor for LTG; upgrade, late check-out for LTP
- Big changes coming to awards! Dynamic award pricing, points required for award night based on hotel room rates at time of booking. No black-out dates, no categories!
Apparently some of the above may end up on the cutting room floor due to IT issues and the deadline. I think the above is surely way to negative to be accurate. I personally don’t have an issue with dynamic award pricing, as long as it’s clear how much points are worth (e.g the Southwest model). What I don’t want to see is dynamic award pricing that is really just hotels still in categories but it gives Marriott the ability to devalue the program without notice (e.g Hilton/Delta model). If the above changes are true, expect significant kick back from both Marriott & SPG loyalty members. Personally I’m filing the above under highly speculative for now, but thought others would appreciate reading it regardless.
