Marriott International is responding to the lifting lockdowns in the region, rolling out a “multi-pronged” program across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands to meet new hygiene standards.
This rollout follows the launch of Marriott International’s ‘Global Cleanliness Council’ in April, which was put together to develop new global standards for hospitality cleanliness in response to the pandemic.
Over the coming weeks, Marriott hotels and associates will receive enhanced sanitization guidelines, cleaning technology and operational training videos.
A number of additions to cleanliness and hygiene regimes will begin at Marriott properties, with new protocols related to social distancing, including increased contactless options such as mobile check-in, in-room dining practices as well as new approaches to restaurant buffets.
Sean Hunt, Marriott’s Area Vice President of Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific said general managers and executives of each property will be ensuring these new standards are met.
“We’re living an interesting time, where travellers’ focus has shifted to things like hygiene protocols and hotels duty of care, rather than just prices. As we continue to navigate through these tough times, we will continue to adapt and ensure we are providing the best possible experience for our guests,” Mr Hunt said.
“Marriot’s proprietary systems include automated processes such as keyless check-in (optional contactless check in and check out) and our mobile dining offering; where guests can use their phone to pre-order food to their room or selected time and location within the hotel. We also have our newly implemented ‘virtual meetings’, where our hotels can plug in and facilitate satellite locations for business meetings.”
