Marriott International has outlined plans to double the number of rooms in its European portfolio.

The international hotel chain presently offers 40,000 rooms across 174 properties, with the figure expected to double to 80,000 rooms by 2015.

“Europe is the largest lodging market in the world and holds enormous potential for Marriott,” Marriott International Europe president Amy McPherson said in a statement.

“With a footing in most of Europe’s gateway cities, we are thrilled to see our expansion continue into secondary cities and emerging markets.”

Marriott offers three property tiers across Europe: the luxury Ritz-Carlton and Bulgari brands, the upper upscale JW Marriott, Marriott and Renaissance brands and the select-service Courtyard by Marriott brand.

The portfolio also includes the Marriott Executive Apartments brand.

European Pipeline

Marriott’s European pipeline presently consists of 30 properties - including a Renaissance in Moscow, a Courtyard in Budapest and a JW Marriott in Ankara, all of which are scheduled to open this year.

The United States giant also plans to introduce new boutique-lifestyle Edition brand and extended stay Residence Inn brand to the European region in coming years.

This will be complimented by recently announced plans to speed its growth further the Autograph Collection brand; a collection of upper upscale and luxury independent resorts that will be able to use Marriott’s sales and technology resources.

Marriott’s chief development officer in Europe, Carlton Ervin, said he expected several independent and small hotel groups in Europe to sign onto the collection.

Gurgaon

In Asia Marriott has announced the launch of the Courtyard by Marriott, Gurgaon; marking the first foray by the brand into the region.

Located in the heart of the Cyber City, Gurgaon, the hotel near Indira Gandhi Airport will offer its guests 198 rooms and suites along with warm and personalised service, unique dining options and best-in-class amenities.

Speaking for the launch Mr Rajeev Menon, area vice president at Marriott said: “Gurgaon has rapidly emerged as one of the most important corporate hubs in India over the past decade.

“We are delighted to announce the launch of the Courtyard by Marriott Gurgaon, the first Courtyard by Marriott in the region.

“The launch reaffirms our long term commitment to India and our determination to bring the best of our brands to the country,” he concluded.