Marriott seeks tech start-ups for hotel deal

By Sophie Witts

- Last updated on GMT

Marriott seeks tech start-ups for hotel deal

Related tags Hotel

Marriott is looking to boost its digital operations by offering two tech start-ups the chance to test their ideas in its European hotels.

The Marriott TestBED scheme is seeking products or services designed to help guests explore a city or improve the hotel group’s understanding of its visitors' wants and needs.

Two winning companies will be able to run a six-week pilot of their product in European Marriott Hotels, while receiving mentoring and training to help grow and promote their brand.

If successful, the start-ups may be offered an ongoing partnership with Marriott.

Budding businesses have until 16 October to submit their entries, after which a shortlist of eight finalists will be invited to pitch to a panel of industry experts on 4 November.

The winning companies will be given several days ‘boot-camp’ training before launching their product in a hotel.

The tech-led initiative follows the launch of Marriott’s Canvas Project, which offers entrepreneurs the chance to open a pop-up restaurant​ in a Marriott hotel.

Osama Hirzalla, vice president brand marketing and eCommerce Europe at Marriott International, said: “The most exciting thing about Marriott TestBED is the idea that entrepreneurs can learn from us and we can learn from them: combining their agility and creativity with our tools and hospitality expertise could be a powerful force in enhancing the guest experience.” 

Last month Marriott became the world's largest hotel group after completing its $13.6bn merger​ with Starwood International.

The company has over 5,700 properties under 30 brands in over 100 countires.

For more information on Marriott TestBED visit www.marriotttestbed.com​.

Related topics Business & Legislation Fine Dining

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