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Press Release: Marriott International, Inc.
October 28, 2002
WASHINGTON, DC -- Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) announced Friday that Fairfield Inn by Marriott opened
its 500th hotel in Rogers, Ark., growing to nearly 48,000 rooms in 48 states. Positioned in the lower-moderate
lodging segment, Fairfield Inn is one of Marriott's fastest growing brands, opening an average of 33 hotels per
year since its launch in 1987. The brand expects to add nearly 25 more hotels by year-end 2003.
"From the very beginning, Fairfield Inn has been popular with customers looking for consistent, quality lodging
at an affordable price," said Tim Sheldon, senior vice president brand management, Marriott International.
"Fairfield Inn is also equally popular with our franchisees who continue to be strong partners and supporters
in the brand's development.
With the opening of the Rogers Fairfield Inn & Suites, Marriott is showcasing its new suite design, which includes
an "entertainment wall" featuring a 32" TV and CD stereo system and ergonomic desk chair. Other
property enhancements include an in-room coffee maker, hair dryer and second telephone, along with an expanded
lobby and an upgraded decor in standard guestrooms.
The 99-room Rogers Fairfield Inn & Suites is owned by FIS Rogers LLC and operated by Inter-Mountain Management,
which is headquartered in West Monroe, La. Inter-Mountain Management operates a total of 19 Marriott-branded hotels
including Fairfield Inn (7), Residence Inn (7), Courtyard (4), and SpringHill Suites (1).
"We've found that the Marriott name adds tremendous value to our lodging operations," said Dewey Weaver
Jr., managing director, Inter-Mountain Management. "Guests look for the consistency, quality and superior
service Marriott is known for; and the company's reservations system, sales support and frequent guest program
is unmatched."
Future development plans by Marriott International and its franchise partners call for building Fairfield Inn hotels
in several markets, including Charleston, S.C.; Avenel, N.J.; New Orleans, La.; Greensboro, N.C.; and Lexington
Park, Md.
Fairfield Inn room rates typically range from $50 to $75. The properties feature large guestrooms with a king-size
or two double beds as well as suite rooms at many hotels. A complimentary continental breakfast -- featuring bagels,
fresh fruit, pastries, cereal, juices and coffee and tea -- is available each morning in the lobby area. Other
amenities include a swimming pool and whirlpool spa; free local phone calls; fax and copy services; phone with
data port; large, well-lit work desk; cable TV; iron and ironing board; and a meeting room and fitness room in
many locations.
Fairfield Inn recently launched its third wave of TV ads in less than seven months. The ad features celebrity coach
Lou Holtz -- current head football coach for the University of South Carolina, and former head coach for the University
of Notre Dame. In the spots, Holtz shares personal advice with business travelers about how to get the most out
of their trip and gain a competitive edge. The ad supports the "Your Marriott Awaits" campaign and spotlights
Fairfield Inn's participation in a special Marriott Rewards® offer -- make three separate stays, earn two free
weekend nights and silver elite level status. The ads are airing on most major network and cable stations.
Reservations at Fairfield Inn or Fairfield Inn & Suites can be made nationwide by calling toll-free (800) 228-2800,
contacting a travel agent or by visiting http://www.fairfieldinn.com
or http://www.marriott.com .
MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL, INC. (NYSE: MAR), a leading worldwide hospitality company celebrating its 75th Anniversary
in 2002, has over 2,600 operating units in the United States and 64 other countries and territories. Marriott International
operates and franchises hotels under the Marriott, JW Marriott, The Ritz-Carlton, Renaissance, Residence Inn, Courtyard,
TownePlace Suites, Fairfield Inn, SpringHill Suites and Ramada International brand names; develops and operates
vacation ownership resorts under the Marriott Vacation Club International, Horizons, The Ritz-Carlton Club and
Marriott Grand Residence Club brands; operates Marriott Executive Apartments; provides furnished corporate housing
through its Marriott ExecuStay division; and operates conference centers. Other Marriott businesses include senior
living communities and services, and wholesale food distribution. The company is headquartered in Washington, D.C.,
and has approximately 144,000 employees. In fiscal year 2001, Marriott International reported systemwide sales
of $20 billion. For more information or reservations, please visit the web site at http://www.marriott.com .
Note: This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of federal securities
law, including statements concerning future hotel openings and development plans and similar statements concerning
anticipated future events and expectations that are not historical facts. The forward-looking statements in this
press release are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including the effects of economic conditions, supply
and demand changes for hotel rooms, competitive conditions in the lodging industry, relationships with clients
and property owners, the impact of government regulations, and the availability of capital to finance growth, which
could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by the statements herein.
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MEDIA CONTACT: Scott Carman Marriott International (301) 380-6491 scott.carman@marriott.com
Source: Marriott International, Inc.