What does Marriott’s ‘Business Ready’ scheme offer to small businesses?
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In late 2020 Marriott launched a new program called “Business Ready” aimed at SMEs in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
Unsurprisingly, given the timing, it seems to have been overlooked by many businesses which could benefit from it. I thought it was worth taking another look today.
What are the benefits of Marriott Bonvoy Business Ready?
Whilst the ‘Business Ready’ microsite here is pretty sparse, these are the key benefits:
- ‘Discounts’ on standard flexible rates seven days a week, including breakfast
- Access to company tracking and reporting dashboard
- 2,500 sign-up bonus for new members on their first paid stay
…. as well as access to the usual Marriott Bonvoy benefits such as mobile check-in and key, late check-out, upgraded WiFi access and room upgrades.
When the scheme launched the discount was pegged at 8% off the Best Available Rate. Whilst the website now steers away from quoting a fixed number, the terms and conditions still quote the 8% figure.
Are there any exclusions?
Yes. Looking at the terms and conditions on the Business Ready site, Bulgari and Design Hotels are not be taking part.
The inclusive breakfast is for one person per room only; a supplement may apply for additional guests.
How to register for Marriott Bonvoy Business Ready
To access Marriott Bonvoy Business Ready you need to register your company on the Business Ready website here.
In addition to your company name, you’ll also be asked the estimated number of annual business nights, number of employees with travel requirements and top five business destinations.
Once you register, you have to wait for Marriott to approve your application.
Whilst there are scant details on what ‘qualifying companies’ are, we were told at launch that applications should be successful as long as the business is registered (or has a trading licence) and has fewer than 250 employees. This should included most of our readers who run an SME.
PS. You should take a look at IHG’s ‘Business Rewards’ scheme which we reviewed here
How to earn Marriott Bonvoy points and status from UK credit cards (December 2024)
There are various ways of earning Marriott Bonvoy points from UK credit cards. Many cards also have generous sign-up bonuses.
The official Marriott Bonvoy American Express card comes with 20,000 points for signing up, 2 points for every £1 you spend and 15 elite night credits per year.
You can apply here.
Marriott Bonvoy American Express
20,000 points for signing up and 15 elite night credits each year Read our full review
You can also earn Marriott Bonvoy points by converting American Express Membership Rewards points at the rate of 2:3.
Do you know that holders of The Platinum Card from American Express receive FREE Marriott Bonvoy Gold status for as long as they hold the card? It also comes with Hilton Honors Gold, Radisson Rewards Premium and MeliaRewards Gold status.
We reviewed American Express Platinum in detail here and you can apply here.
SPECIAL OFFER: Until 14th January 2025, the sign-up bonus on The Platinum Card from American Express is increased to 80,000 Membership Rewards points. This converts into 120,000 Marriott Bonvoy points! The spend requirement is changed to £10,000 in six months for this offer. Click here to apply.
The Platinum Card from American Express
Huge 80,000 bonus points and great travel benefits – for a large fee Read our full review
You can also earn Marriott Bonvoy points indirectly:
- American Express Gold (20,000 bonus Amex points)
- American Express Rewards Credit Card (10,000 bonus Amex points)
SPECIAL OFFER: Until 14th January 2025, the sign-up bonus on ‘free for a year’ American Express Preferred Rewards Gold is increased to 30,000 Membership Rewards points. This converts into 45,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. Click here to apply.
and for small business owners:
- American Express Business Gold (20,000 bonus Amex points)
- American Express Business Platinum (50,000 bonus Amex points)
The conversion rate from American Express to Marriott Bonvoy points is 2:3.
(Want to earn more hotel points? Click here to see our complete list of promotions from the major hotel chains or use the ‘Hotel Offers’ link in the menu bar at the top of the page.)
