SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA, 31 MARCH 2023:  As the preferred hotel partner of the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix and the presenting partner of the Marriott Bonvoy Lounge for the fourth year running, Marriott International report high level bookings over the next two weeks, with their eleven Melbourne hotels at 100% occupancy on April 1. The strong demand follows Melbourne's hosting of the 2nd major international sporting event this year, the F1 Australian meet of the fastest and most technically advanced motorsport race globally.

Sean Hunt, Area Vice President, Australia, New Zealand and Pacific for Marriot International said, “The partnership between Marriott Bonvoy and the Formula 1 has bolstered our occupancy and revenue as we lead into the 2023 Grand Prix event. Occupancy across our Melbourne properties is sitting at around 95% for the 30 March to 3 April period, an increase on 2022 figures which averaged 88% in the leadup and 90% over the Grand Prix weekend.

“Our two new Melbourne properties, Le Meridien Melbourne and The Ritz-Carlton Melbourne have launched to market with truly buoyant results. Both properties are fully sold out on April 1st, demonstrating the strong demand major events drive into the city and testament to the recovery of travel, particularly in the luxury market.”

Melbourne is Marriott International's leading destination for growth in the Australia region for 2023, operating 11 hotels in Melbourne including the recently opened Le Meridien Melbourne and The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne. By the end of March, Marriott's room stock in Melbourne will sit at over 2400 keys.

“Hotel occupancy levels have continued to increase over the last year, with domestic travel continuing to drive demand. In February 2023, the occupancy across our suite of Melbourne properties was at 70% and March will finish higher.  We've added an additional 500 rooms to Melbourne this month, creating 270 new jobs. We currently employ more than 1150 across our Melbourne hotels,” said Sean Hunt.

Marriott Bonvoy's partnership with the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix will invite Bonvoy Members, VIPs and guests into a world of personalised luxury experiences offering a behind-the-scenes view of the world's most technically advanced motorsport race. Guests will have access to a range of truly unique money-can't-buy experiences including premium Practice Day and Race Day viewing, access to the Paddock Club, Pitt Lane, Pit Lane walk and the Invitation-only Glamour on-the-Grid Party along with exclusive meet and greets with some of the world's high-profile racing talent. The Marriott Bonvoy Lounge will be providing exclusive hospitality experiences along with an on-site mixologist and award-winning chefs.

Marriott International partners with a range of Australia's leading events, including a multi-year hotel partnership with Tennis Australia, W Hotels and the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras and World Pride 2023, Formula 1 Grand Prix, Melbourne Fashion Festival, Taste Port Douglas, Dinner en Blanc and TedX.

Marriott International continues to expand their brand portfolio in the ANZP region, with a further 11 properties signed and, in the pipeline, to open in the next few years.

 ###

Media Contact:

Melissa Dive, The Mint Partners

melissa@themintpartners.com.au or +61 484 906 720

About Marriott Bonvoy® 

Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International's award-winning travel program and marketplace, gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. Marriott Bonvoy's portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind. To enrol for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com. To download the Marriott app, go here. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.