“I want to thank the delegates of the International Hotel Investment Forum for honoring me with their Lifetime Achievement Award,” said Mr. Marriott. “What started as a nine-stool root beer stand my parents opened in Washington, D.C. more than 80 years ago, has evolved into a global hospitality company with more than 3,400 hotels and resorts in nearly 70 countries. We continue to grow around the world and just yesterday we announced that we will be doubling our portfolio in Europe by 2015. At Marriott, we say, “Success is never final,” and I believe that. But I am also gratified that during my career I’ve been able to help build something of real value – with an authentic, caring culture – that provides thousands of people around the world with opportunity.”
Marriott’s strong commitment to environmental preservation is a key element of that culture. Marriott’s environmental strategy includes global conservation efforts to reduce and offset Marriott International’s carbon footprint; reduction of fuel and water consumption by 25% over the next 10 years with installation of solar power at 40 hotels by 2017; engagement of Marriott’s top 40 vendors to supply price-neutral green products across 12 categories of its $10 billion supply chain and empower Marriott International hotel development partners to site, design and construct new hotels according to green standards by updating Marriott International’s design guidelines in line with LEED standards by the end of 2009.
“IHIF is delighted to award Bill Marriott with this prestigious award due to his commitment to the hospitality industry and his responsible actions in regards to the environment,” said Jon Leibowitz, EVP of Questex Media Group, co-organiser of IHIF.
“We feel that his integrated approach to combining business with a green strategy sets a positive example about how a hotel company can make a big difference in the world. He has continually made outstanding contributions to our industry and we are delighted to present this award to him as a shining example for us all,” stated Jonathan Worsley, co-organiser of IHIF.
On hand to accept the award was Amy McPherson, Marriott’s new president and managing director for Europe. “On behalf of Mr. Marriott and all of the Marriott associates around the world, thank you so much for this great honor,” said McPherson
Mr. Marriott is actively involved in various boards and councils including the U.S. Travel and Tourism Promotional Advisory Board, the executive committee of the World Travel & Tourism Council, the National Business Council, the board of trustees of the National Urban League, a director of the National Geographic Society, and a director of the Naval Academy Endowment Trust. He has served as chairman of the President's Export Council, a group that advises the U.S. President on matters relating to export trade, and has served as chairman of the Leadership Council of the Laura Bush Foundation for America's Libraries.
The Lifetime Achievement Award recipient is selected by a committee comprised of the IHIF’s Patrons, Sponsors, Hosts, and Organizers.
NEWS ARTICLE
More News
