Marriott International is now the world--s largest hotel company

Marriott International recently became the world&rsquos largest hotel company after completing the biggest hotel merger in history. The company announced its acquisition of Starwood Hotels and Resorts last week. The new company will operate over 5,700 properties and 1.1 million rooms, representing 30 leading brands from the moderate-tier to luxury in more than 110 countries. With the completion of this acquisition, Marriott&rsquos distribution has more than doubled in Asia, the Middle East and Africa. Marriott will also match member status across Marriott rewards - which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards - and Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG), allowing members to transfer points between the programmes for exclusive experiences when they link their accounts. Marriott has launched a microsite, members.marriott.com, for all members of the combined company&rsquos loyalty programs to learn more about the reciprocal benefits..