In an effort to update event professionals on the processes for meetings and events that have been redefined in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Marriott International has published a series of new materials on its Marriott Bonvoy Events site. 

Part of Marriott’s “Commitment to Clean,” the new digital content highlights the latest sanitation guidelines, operational training for associates and conference technologies the company’s hotels have implemented to ensure groups can gather when they are ready. Included in the new materials are an informational video, customer stories and other resources designed to provide the context and information necessary for planners to organize events within the current environment.

“Our Commitment to Clean is guiding everything from how we keep our guests and associates safe to how we begin to welcome back event and meetings business,” said Ray Bennett, chief global officer of global operations for Marriott International and chair of the Marriott Global Cleanliness Council, which was formed to address the issues of the pandemic and helped guide the creation of the new materials. 

“Our Global Cleanliness Council is working with us to tackle the realities of the COVID-19 pandemic and what that means for an event or meeting at a hotel,” said Bennett. “Having experts in the area of hygiene, food safety, infectious disease and infection prevention has been enormously beneficial in helping us think through everything we can do to support organizations as they begin to envision, plan and execute future meetings and events of all sizes.”  

Using the new materials — including best practices, testimonials and visuals of actual meetings — the individual hotel events teams can show planners what holding a meeting in the current environment will look like to help them more easily design an event that meets their objectives. 

From initial planning through contracting, the events teams then consult with the clients on practices that include social distancing of attendees, enhanced offerings for virtual or hybrid meetings, contactless registration and catering solutions. Consultations, pre-convention meetings and site tours can all be conducted virtually and adapted to include hygiene and safety briefings. 

“Marriott International continues to work in collaboration with industry organizations, such as the Events Industry Council, to find ways to instill trust and confidence in meetings and events,” said Tammy Routh, senior vice president of global sales organization for Marriott International. “We look forward to welcoming back customers and guests for the exceptional experiences that our company is known for in a safe and clean environment.” 

Find information and resources related to Marriott International’s newly enhanced meeting and event offerings here.