Marriott International Ends Partnership with Sonder Holdings
In a significant shift within the hospitality sector, Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) has announced the termination of its licensing agreement with Sonder Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: SOND, "Sonder"). This decision comes as a result of Sonder's failure to meet its payment obligations. As a consequence, the properties managed by Sonder will no longer be affiliated with Marriott Bonvoy, and all new reservations through Marriott’s channels will no longer be available for Sonder properties.
Immediate Actions by Marriott
Marriott has emphasized its commitment to supporting guests who are presently staying in Sonder properties, as well as those who had reservations lined up for the future. The company stated that they would reach out to guests who booked directly through their platforms, which include
marriott.com, the Marriott Bonvoy app, and their global reservation centers, to assist them with their booking needs. For guests who had made their reservations through online travel agencies, the responsibility falls on those agencies to respond to customer inquiries. Marriott's main goal remains to minimize any disruptions to travelers' plans.
Guest Assistance and Next Steps
The hotel giant has established a customer service channel specifically for inquiries related to reservations made through Marriott for Sonder properties. Guests can reach out to this service provider to resolve any issues stemming from the cancellation of the agreement. This proactive approach reflects Marriott's emphasis on customer service and commitment to maintaining guest satisfaction amid unforeseen challenges.
Background on Marriott International
Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, Marriott International operates a portfolio of over 9,700 properties spread across more than 30 leading brands in 143 countries and territories as of September 30, 2025. The company is well-known not only for its vast array of hotels, residences, and timeshare properties but also for its renowned travel platform, Marriott Bonvoy®. The commitment to high-quality service remains a hallmark of Marriott, making it a trusted choice among travelers worldwide.
The Impact of the Deal Termination
The ending of the agreement with Sonder underscores broader trends in the hospitality and travel industry, particularly involving partnerships and licensing arrangements. Payment defaults or disagreements over financial terms can lead to disruptions in service delivery. With Marriott's vast network, the impact may resonate through various segments of the travel market, affecting both consumer choices and market dynamics.
Conclusion
While this termination is unfortunate for those who may have planned their stays through Sonder, Marriott's swift action to address the situation demonstrates its dedication to passenger satisfaction. As they navigate this transition, industry watchers will be keen to see what steps Marriott takes next to reinforce its brand and improve guest experiences in a post-Sonder context. The hospitality world is ever-evolving, and partnerships must adapt to meet the changing financial and operational landscapes.
For further information about Marriott International and its future directions, please visit their official website or check their latest updates at the Marriott News Center. Followers are also encouraged to stay connected via their social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram.