Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE/MAR) announced today that it has changed the name of its upscale, serviced apartment brand, Marriott Executive Residences, to Marriott Executive Apartments. The change is effective immediately.

According to Ellen Wright, brand director for Marriott Executive Apartments, the reason for the change is two-fold. First, as the brand embarks on development opportunities in the United States, it became apparent that Marriott needed to differentiate the brand name and more clearly define its positioning as a serviced apartment product. Secondly, the renaming will help align Marriott Executive Apartments with the company`s newly acquired ExecuStay lodging brand, which provides corporate housing services to business executives.

Wright noted that the two brands will share a great deal of synergy in that ExecuStay provides a tremendous distribution system and a powerful sales force that Marriott Executive Apartments can leverage.

Marriott Executive Apartments is poised to become the worldwide leader in the serviced apartment segment, said Wright. We will continue to provide the services and amenities which are trademarks of Marriott`s commitment to quality and hospitality.

Launched February 1997, the brand was designed for global business executives whose international assignments take them out of their home country for 30 days or more. Marriott Executive Apartments offers travelers a spacious, residential-style apartment with hotel-like amenities, full kitchens, security and the availability of short-term leases.

The units include a dedicated work area and desk, double-line telephones with voicemail and PC hook-up, mini-stereos and VCR. Additional on-site amenities include a fitness center, business center, parking and storage. One key feature is a comfortable resident`s lounge which is exclusive to residents for the purpose of relaxing and socializing with other residents.

The Marriott Executive Apartments brand also provides its residents with a socialization program which is designed to eliminate the stress associated with being away from home for an extended period of time. Two weeks before arrival, residents receive a pre-arrival call from the property informing them of their direct dial phone number, confirming their arrival day and time and inquiring about any additional services the residents might need.

Upon arrival, the refrigerator in the apartment is stocked with milk, orange juice, bottled water, and a welcome amenity consisting of food items for breakfast and dinner. The resident also receives a complimentary tour of the city and a book about local customs, restaurants and shopping.
Residents also benefit from Marriott Rewards, the world`s largest multi-frequent guest program with almost 11 million members.
Currently, Marriott Executive Apartments has a presence in Budapest, Hungary, and Hong Kong. Under construction and scheduled to open during the next 24 months are the following:

- 53-unit Longin Center Marriott Executive Apartments, Prague.
- 179-unit Marriott Executive Apartments, Munbai, India.
- 237-unit Marriott Executive Apartments, Shanghai, China.

For additional information about Marriott Executive Apartments please visit, execuapartments.com.

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