What To Know
- Willard Marriott, a devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), opened a root beer stand in Washington, D.
- While Marriott International is no longer directly owned by the LDS Church, the church’s influence is still evident in the company’s culture and values.
- Marriott International is a global hospitality leader that operates as an independent entity, committed to diversity and inclusion and delivering exceptional guest experiences.
The Marriott International brand is renowned worldwide for its hospitality and luxury. However, a question that often lingers among curious travelers and business associates is: Is Marriott owned by Mormons? This blog post delves into the intriguing history and ownership structure of Marriott International to provide a comprehensive answer to this frequently asked question.
Origins and Mormon Influence
The Marriott story began in 1927 when J. Willard Marriott, a devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), opened a root beer stand in Washington, D.C. The business flourished, and over the years, Marriott expanded into restaurants, hotels, and other ventures.
Throughout its growth, Marriott International maintained close ties to the LDS Church. Many of its employees and executives were members of the church, and the company’s values were influenced by Mormon principles such as integrity, hard work, and family values.
Modern Ownership Structure
Today, Marriott International is a publicly traded company with a diverse shareholder base. The largest shareholder is the Marriott family, which holds approximately 24% of the company’s outstanding shares. Other major shareholders include institutional investors, such as pension funds and mutual funds.
The Church’s Influence on Marriott
While Marriott International is no longer directly owned by the LDS Church, the church’s influence is still evident in the company’s culture and values. Many of the company’s executives and employees are LDS members, and the company supports various LDS charities and initiatives.
However, it is important to note that Marriott International operates as an independent entity from the LDS Church. The company’s business decisions and operations are not directly controlled by the church.
Respect for Diversity and Inclusion
Marriott International is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce and among its guests. The company does not discriminate based on religion, race, gender, or sexual orientation. Its hotels and resorts welcome guests from all backgrounds and beliefs.
Marriott’s Global Reach
Marriott International has grown into a global hospitality giant, with over 7,800 properties in 139 countries and territories. The company’s portfolio includes a wide range of brands, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts.
Marriott’s Reputation for Excellence
Marriott International is widely recognized for its exceptional customer service and its commitment to quality. The company has received numerous industry awards and accolades, including the J.D. Power Award for Highest Guest Satisfaction Among Upscale Hotel Chains.
The Future of Marriott
Marriott International continues to expand and innovate, with plans to open new hotels and resorts around the world. The company is also investing in technology and sustainability initiatives to enhance the guest experience and reduce its environmental impact.
Summing Up: Is Marriott Owned by Mormons?
In summary, Marriott International is not directly owned by the LDS Church. It is a publicly traded company with a diverse shareholder base. However, the LDS Church’s influence is still evident in the company’s culture and values. Marriott International is a global hospitality leader that operates as an independent entity, committed to diversity and inclusion and delivering exceptional guest experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Marriott owned by the LDS Church?
A: No, Marriott International is not directly owned by the LDS Church. It is a publicly traded company with a diverse shareholder base.
Q: Does the LDS Church have any influence on Marriott International?
A: Yes, the LDS Church‘s influence is evident in Marriott International‘s culture and values. Many of the company’s executives and employees are LDS members, and the company supports various LDS charities and initiatives.
Q: Is Marriott International a Christian company?
A: Marriott International does not identify as a Christian company. While the company’s values are influenced by Mormon principles, it welcomes guests and employees from all backgrounds and beliefs.
