Marriott Hotels and Resorts

Marriott International is a globally recognized leader in the hospitality industry, founded originally as a root beer stand in Washington, D.C., in 1927 by J. Willard Marriott and Alice Marriott. The brand evolved into a major hotel chain with the opening of its first motor hotel in Arlington, Virginia, in 1957. Over the decades, it has grown into one of the largest hotel companies in the world through both organic growth and strategic acquisitions.

Today, Marriott operates and franchises a vast portfolio of hotels and lodging facilities worldwide. While the brand originated in the United States, its properties are physically located in over 130 countries, making its presence truly international. The company is known for its wide range of brands, from luxury tiers like The Ritz-Carlton to select-service options like Courtyard by Marriott.

Ownership remains centralized under Marriott International, Inc., which is a publicly traded company on the NASDAQ. The Marriott family continues to maintain a significant interest and involvement in the company's leadership. Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Marriott International serves as the ultimate owner, overseeing thousands of managed and franchised properties across the globe.