Marriott International, Inc and the Spanish hotel group AC Hotels formally launched their joint venture and new co-brand, AC Hotels by Marriott. A portfolio of 85 existing AC Hotels in Spain, Italy and Portugal have been re-branded AC Hotels by Marriott and are now accepting reservations through all of Marriott’s distribution channels, including Marriott.com.

In Madrid for the celebration, J. W. Marriott, Jr., chairman and chief executive officer of Marriott International, Inc. said, “I am thrilled to be here today for the launch of our exciting new brand, AC Hotels by Marriott, and to officially welcome this stylish new portfolio of hotels into our Marriott family. AC Hotels by Marriott is a great partnership and we are thrilled to deliver 85 new hotel choices to our loyal Marriott customers throughout Spain, Italy and Portugal.”

The 9,000 room AC Hotels by Marriott venture is a significant driver of Marriott’s European growth strategy and five-year goal of reaching 80,000 rooms in Europe by 2015. 

Antonio Catalan, chairman and founder of AC Hotels said, “Today marks the start of a new era. We are proud to be part of the Marriott global family of brands and will together be aggressively pursuing development opportunities for AC Hotels by Marriott throughout Europe and Latin America.”

AC Hotels by Marriott reflect the modern urban lifestyle with hotels featuring a unique blend of quality, comfort, design and technology. All AC Hotels by Marriott welcome guests with their signature AC Lounge, offering complimentary Wi-Fi; it is a great place to relax, work or unwind with a drink or snack. Guestrooms in AC Hotels by Marriott feature a contemporary look and feel with crisp white bedding, gleaming wood floors, modern bathrooms and free mini-bar.

To celebrate the launch, all AC Hotels by Marriott are offering 15% off room rates through 8 January 2012 for reservations made seven to 14 days in advance (varies by hotel). For more information and bookings, please visit www.marriott.com and use promotional code ADV.

Starting in late 2011, AC Hotels by Marriott will also be part of Marriott Rewards, Marriott International’s award-winning guest loyalty program, with over 35 million members. Marriott Rewards members will be able to earn and redeem points at AC Hotels by Marriott.