The Ritz-Carlton

The Ritz-Carlton brand holds a legendary status in the luxury hospitality industry, tracing its spiritual roots back to the legendary hotelier César Ritz in early 20th-century Europe. The modern iteration of the company began in 1983 with the establishment of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC in the United States, which acquired the rights to the name and the iconic lion and crown logo. Known for its gold standard in customer service and the philosophy 'We are Ladies and Gentlemen serving Ladies and Gentlemen,' the brand has expanded its footprint globally, operating prestigious properties in major cities and resort destinations across the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

While the brand originated in its modern form in the United States, its ownership transitioned significantly in the late 20th century. In 1995, Marriott International purchased a 49% stake in the company, followed by a complete acquisition in 1998. Since then, Ritz-Carlton has served as a flagship luxury brand within the Marriott portfolio. Manufacturing in this context refers to the development and operation of physical hotel properties, which are constructed and managed in dozens of countries worldwide, often through partnership agreements with local developers and real estate investment trusts.

As of 2026, The Ritz-Carlton remains a cornerstone of Marriott International's luxury tier. The brand continues to evolve beyond traditional hospitality, encompassing luxury residences, yacht collection cruises, and destination clubs. Under Marriott's stewardship, the brand maintains its distinct identity while benefiting from the global distribution systems and loyalty programs of its parent company, ensuring its continued dominance in the high-end travel market.