Global Management News Updates from Marriott International

The Ritz-Carlton Debuts in Suzhou, Showcasing the Timeless Elegance and Rich Heritage of China’s Venice of the East

Blending Local Culture and Elegant Design, The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou Elevates Luxury in One of China’s Most Culturally and Historically Rich Cities.

The Ritz-Carlton today announced its highly anticipated debut in the historic city of Suzhou, nestled in China’s Jiangsu province near Shanghai. As the brand’s first venture into the city, The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou introduces its legendary service, timeless elegance and immersive cultural experiences to the city’s scenic Gusu District, offering travelers seamless access to the rich history and dynamic charm of Suzhou.

“Suzhou, with its timeless gardens, classical canals, and centuries-old tradition of artistry and craftsmanship, offers an extraordinary setting for The Ritz-Carlton experience,” said Tina Edmundson, President of Luxury at Marriott International. “We are honored to invite guests to immerse themselves in the city’s poetic beauty and rich heritage, reimagined through our refined lens of luxury and legendary service.”

Suzhou, often referred to as the "Venice of the East”, boasts a rich history spanning over a thousand years and is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the ancient Grand Canal and the renowned Classical Gardens of Suzhou. Located in the heart of the city, The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou is within a two-kilometer walking distance to renowned attractions such as the Lingering Garden, Xiyuan Temple, and Shantang Street. The hotel is also next to the city’s Metro Line and just three kilometers from Suzhou Railway Station, with high-speed rail access to popular destinations, including Shanghai, Xi’an, and Guangzhou, making it a convenient retreat for both leisure and business travelers.

Designed by the acclaimed KPF Architects, the hotel's striking facade utilizes modern techniques to reinterpret traditional Suzhou elements of layered, blue-tiled roofs, folding fan screens, and the concept of negative spaces in Chinese paintings. The interiors, conceptualized by renowned architect Peter Remedios, pay homage to Suzhou’s storied silk trade and the iconic classical gardens. Neutral tones set a serene backdrop, accentuating the contrast of white walls and black tiles, while intricate lattice windows and silk-inspired motifs weave a refined narrative throughout. The result is an understated elegance that harmoniously reflects the city's rich heritage.

The hotel features 190 spacious guest rooms and suites, including 57 luxurious suites of 86-square meters. Each room takes inspiration from the minimalist Suzhou architecture of crisp black lines on white, defining shapes and silhouettes in its utmost simplicity. This modern Chinese aesthetic is further enhanced by traditional embroideries that depict bridges over streams, creating an immersive sense of place. The Ritz-Carlton Suite, spanning 306-square meters, offers an open terrace with panoramic views of the lush Gusu cityscape and Suzhou's iconic gardens. Guests staying in Club Level rooms and suites will be able to enjoy access to the signature Ritz-Carlton Club, an exclusive and intimate space that offers an atmosphere of privacy and sophistication, where cultural immersions including Su Embroidery sessions, Suzhou tea masterclasses, and traditional fan workshop will be held.

The hotel’s four restaurants and bars blend The Ritz-Carlton’s culinary craftsmanship with the region’s vibrant food culture. Alkanna, the hotel’s specialty restaurant, serves modern bistro fare alongside a boutique à la carte menu and a selection of oven-grilled steaks. The Alkanna Bar offers an extensive wine collection and a unique cocktail menu featuring herbal-based specialties. Additionally, Feng Pan Ting, a Chinese tea lounge, showcases Suzhou's famous tea culture, offering performances by tea masters and an array of authentic local delicacies. Biao Xia, the Chinese restaurant, offers Huaiyang cuisine exquisitely crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, capturing the spirit of the destination.

Accompanying each stay are personalized interpretations of the city’s cultural experiences. Guests can have the opportunity to join in various activities, including the signature Ritz Kids program, traditional tea master performances, and a unique local tradition of toasting with Huangjiu, a Chinese rice wine often enjoyed marking life’s special moments. Each evening, creative tea-infused beverages are also served in the lobby, offering a warm and immersive way for guests to connect with the destination.

Additional facilities include a 24-hour fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment as well as a 143m² swimming pool. For intimate gatherings, celebrations, or corporate functions, the hotel provides four well-appointed event spaces, including a spacious 508-square-meter grand ballroom, three versatile multi-functional meeting rooms, and a charming outdoor venue in the style of Suzhou’s classical gardens.  

“The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou stands as the crown jewel of the city’s China Central Place, and sets to become a vibrant hub for commerce, culture, and social life,” said Nicolas Kassab, General Manager, The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou. “We aim to provide guests with a distinctive experience that reflects the luxury and heritage of Suzhou while also contributing to the city's vibrant cultural and hospitality landscape.”

For more information, please visit: https://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/wuxsz-the-ritz-carlton-suzhou/overview/.

ABOUT THE RITZ-CARLTON, SUZHOU

Welcome to The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou, a sanctuary where the borderless blend of past and present redefines luxury in the historic Gusu District of Suzhou City. With 190 impeccably designed rooms and suites, 4 restaurants & bars, 508 sqm Grand Ballroom, and 3 function rooms, our hotel invites you to experience a harmonious fusion of Suzhou’s storied heritage and contemporary elegance. The prestigious China Central Place, Suzhou, offers guests unparalleled access to Tadao Ando’s architectural masterpiece, H+ Art Museum, and premium shopping and entertainment. The hotel’s design is a tribute to Suzhou’s iconic gardens and canals, embodying a timeless sophistication.

ABOUT THE RITZ-CARLTON HOTEL COMPANY, LLC

Delivering the Gold Standard in service in coveted destinations around the world, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC currently operates more than 120 hotels in over 35 countries and territories. From iconic urban destinations to stretches of paradise in untouched corners of the earth, The Ritz-Carlton offers the opportunity for true discovery and transformative escapes that stay with guests long after they depart. Committed to thoughtful innovation, The Ritz-Carlton encompasses two groundbreaking brand extensions, Ritz-Carlton Reserve and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a collection of rare estates set apart from the world, where personalized care and cultural immersion are paramount. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection translates the brand’s legendary service and hospitality for sea, reimagining the ultra-luxury cruising category. For more information or reservations, visit the company website at www.ritzcarlton.com, for the latest company updates, visit news.marriott.com and to join the live conversation, use #RCMemories and follow along on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR). The Ritz-Carlton is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including complimentary nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com. The Ritz-Carlton is committed to supporting the destinations where it operates through Community Footprints, the company’s social and environmental responsibility program.

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City Express by Marriott Expands into the U.S. and Canada, Marking a Major Milestone in Regional Growth

Opening of City Express by Marriott Duluth (GA) in March 2025 signifies the company’s entry into midscale segment in key region, with over a dozen more properties slated to open throughout 2025.

Marriott International, Inc. announced the opening of City Express by Marriott Duluth (GA), the first City Express by Marriott property in the United States. Available to book as of March 2025, the opening marks a significant milestone for the company as its official debut in the affordable midscale segment in the U.S. and Canada.

In its expansion, City Express by Marriott remains focused on delivering a seamless guest experience for both business and leisure travelers, while also offering a conversion-friendly model for owners. Each property will offer guest rooms designed to combine style and hassle-free comfort, featuring plush beds, high-speed internet access, and a complimentary breakfast to start the day right. Guests will also enjoy added convenience with 24-hour markets, pet-friendly policies, and on-site fitness facilities, ensuring that every stay is effortless and enjoyable.

“The introduction of City Express by Marriott properties in the U.S. represents a pivotal moment for Marriott International as we continue to expand our footprint in the midscale segment,” says Noah Silverman, Global Development Officer, U.S. and Canada. “The value proposition that this conversion-friendly, transient midscale brand brings both to owners and guests has turned City Express by Marriott into a powerhouse in the Caribbean and Latin America (CALA) region, and we are thrilled to deliver this same combination of value to the U.S. and Canada.”

Marriott is set to accelerate the expansion of City Express by Marriott across the U.S. and Canada throughout 2025 and beyond, with over 45 total signed agreements already in place, more than a dozen of which are slated to open this year The 2025 openings will be strategically located in some of the most sought-after destinations across the region including City Express by Marriott New Orleans Northeast and City Express by Marriott Chicago Downtown expected in Q2 of 2025, along with City Express by Marriott Orlando International Drive, City Express by Marriott Port Hope (Ontario, Canada), and others scheduled to open later this year.

"The launch of City Express by Marriott in the U.S. and Canada market underscores our commitment to meeting the diverse needs of all travelers," says Diana Plazas-Trowbridge, Chief Lodging Products Officer, U.S. and Canada, "Whether for business or leisure, guests at City Express by Marriott in the U.S. and Canada will now experience the same seamless, efficient stay that has made the brand a success in the CALA region. We’re excited to bring this unique blend of value and convenience to new travelers and Marriott Bonvoy members."

Located a convenient 30-minute drive from downtown Atlanta, the 83-room City Express by Marriott Duluth will offer guests easy access to the energy of the city while staying in a relaxed, well-connected location, complete with its own vibrant dining scene, nearby parks, trails and lakefront escapes.

Since acquiring the City Express brand portfolio in 2023, Marriott has been strategically expanding its footprint in the fast-growing affordable midscale segment, offering tailored products that resonate with regional markets and attract new customers. Today, the company proudly features three dynamic midscale brands: City Express by Marriott in CALA and the U.S. and Canada, Four Points Flex by Sheraton in Europe, Middle East and Africa and Asia Pacific excluding China, and StudioRes, an upcoming extended stay brand set to debut in the U.S. and Canada this year.

City Express by Marriott has also continued its expansion across the CALA region. This includes the recently announced planned expansion into Argentina, Bolivia, Nicaragua, and Peru, with eight new properties expected to open over the next three years. The company also plans to expand the brand’s portfolio into Brazil in the near future.

The City Express by Marriott properties in the U.S. and Canada will participate in Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program – allowing members to earn and redeem points for their stay across Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio of brands.

ABOUT CITY EXPRESS BY MARRIOTT

City Express by Marriott offers travelers a space where convenience meets comfort. Catering to the needs of both business and leisure travelers, the brand offers seamless and efficient stays in convenient locations ensuring a hassle-free journey. With a focus on quality and simplicity, guests do more than just stay – they relax, recharge, and get ready for whatever comes next. With over 150 properties in 5 countries, City Express by Marriott, our flagship, stands alongside City Express Plus by Marriott, City Express Suites by Marriott, City Express Junior by Marriott, and City Centro by Marriott each uniquely designed for a different segment of travelers. City Express by Marriott is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments, and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit www.marriott.com/loyalty.mi. For more information or reservations, visit www.marriott.com, and for the latest company updates, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.

ABOUT MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL

Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of over 9,300 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 144 countries and territories. Marriott operates, franchises, and licenses hotel, residential, timeshare, and other lodging properties all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel platform. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on X and Instagram.Marriott encourages investors, the media, and others interested in the company to review and subscribe to the information Marriott posts on its investor relations website at www.marriott.com/investor or Marriott’s news center website at www.marriottnewscenter.com, which may be material. The contents of these websites are not incorporated by reference into this press release or any report or document Marriott files with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, and any references to the websites are intended to be inactive textual references only.

LINK DIRECTLY TO SOURCE: City Express by Marriott Expands into the U.S. and Canada, Marking a Major Milestone in Regional Growth

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