Marriott and MGM revive Points partnership discussions

Marriott International and MGM Resorts first announced their plans to launch the Points partnership in July last year. However, it was delayed, especially in October, when MGM announced a ransomware attack on its brand. Both parties have not specified a specific date, but the negotiations appear to be back on track. It will cover eligible members of all tiers, allowing them to redeem their points at their favorite location of the casino giant.

The loyalty partnership has been titled MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy. MGM Rewards tiers will be converted to Marriott Bonvoy based on where the customer is. For instance, gold members of MGM Rewards will be able to claim Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status. Similarly, here is how the other two tiers will play out:

• Platinum members of MGM Rewards will be eligible to claim Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status.
• Invitation-only members of MGM Rewards will qualify for Bonvoy Ambassador Elite status.

The associated tiers and rewards are set to be effective throughout 2024. To reiterate, neither partner has yet provided the starting date.

All 17 domestic properties of MGM come under the partnership. This includes the one on the Las Vegas Strip, along with regional casino hotels.

As per the casino news, Bill Hornbuckle, the Chief Executive Officer of MGM, has acknowledged the fact that the operator may eventually see more benefits from the partnership with Marriott. Bill has said that even though the launch was delayed due to the cyberattack, it is now practical for them to bring MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy to the table.

Hornbuckle has further said that there would be a higher need when there is a larger number of travelers making their presence felt and keen on collecting points. Bill believes that may not be a good time to alter loyalty points. Hence, the said mechanism could go to the table soon.

The hotelier has noted that the program’s benefit will incentivize over 43 million members of MGM Rewards. They have noted that only those not part of the MGM platform will lack the qualification to earn points. Meaning, all the members qualify for the program with the ability to earn rewards and redeem them at their favorite location.

Sahara Las Vegas is another brand that is notably altering its customer loyalty program. The objective is to attract more active bettors by making necessary changes to its Infinity Rewards platform. Alterations will empower participants to earn rewards six times faster than usual. The development practically dates back to 2022, building a foundation for other brands to follow suit.

It had a good response, and now is the time for Marriott and MGM to make a move for their customers.

The development comes days after MGM announced it was acquiring land on the Las Vegas Strip. The size is, reportedly, 1.62 acres, and the purchase process was done in May for a valuation of $54 million.