I Bytes Hospitality Industry

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I-Bytes
Hospitality
February Edition 2021
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Table of Contents
1. Financial M&A Updates.......................................................................................................................................1
2. Solution Updates...................................................................................................................................................2
3. Rewards and Recognition Updates....................................................................................................................12
4. Customer Success Updates.................................................................................................................................20
5. Partnership Ecosystem Updates........................................................................................................................21
6. Environmental & Social Updates.......................................................................................................................27
7. Miscellaneous Updates........................................................................................................................................28

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Financial, M & A
Updates Hospitality Industry

Financial, M&A Updates
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McDonald's (USA) Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2020 Results
• Global comparable sales declined 1.3% while improving from the prior quarter, reflecting positive
comparable sales in the U.S. of 5.5%, and negative comparable sales in the International Operated segment and
International Developmental Licensed segment of 7.4% and 3.6%, respectively.
• Consolidated revenues decreased 2% (3% in constant currencies).
• Systemwide sales increased 1% (flat in constant currencies).
• Consolidated operating income decreased 7% (9% in constant currencies) and included $142 million of
strategic gains primarily related to the sale of McDonald's Japan stock. Excluding these gains, operating income
decreased 13% (15% in constant currencies).
• Diluted earnings per share of $1.84 decreased 12% (13% in constant currencies). Excluding $0.14 per share
of current year strategic gains primarily related to the sale of McDonald's Japan stock, diluted earnings per share
was $1.70 for the quarter, a decrease of 14% (15% in constant currencies) when also excluding $0.11 per share
of prior year income tax benefit due to regulations issued in the fourth quarter of 2019.
• Global comparable sales declined 7.7%, reflecting positive comparable sales in the U.S. of 0.4%, and
negative comparable sales in the International Operated segment and International Developmental Licensed
segment of 15.0% and 10.5%, respectively.
• Consolidated revenues decreased 10% (10% in constant currencies).
• Systemwide sales decreased 7% (7% in constant currencies).
• Consolidated operating income decreased 19% (20% in constant currencies) and included $268 million of
net strategic gains. Excluding these items, operating income decreased 23% (23% in constant currencies), when
also excluding $74 million of net strategic charges from the prior year.
• Diluted earnings per share of $6.31 decreased 20% (20% in constant currencies).
Executive Commentary
"2020 will be remembered as one of McDonald's most challenging, yet inspiring, moments in our long
history. The resilience of the McDonald's System was on display – making safety and service a priority,
putting our customers and people first, and running great restaurants," said McDonald's President and Chief
Executive Officer. "Against an uncertain backdrop, we are committed to staying true to our values and our
brand purpose to feed and foster communities. By investing for the future and leveraging competitive
strengths within our accelerating the Arches strategy in drive-thru, delivery, and our growing digital
presence, we're confident we can continue to capture market share and drive long-term sustainable growth
for all stakeholders."
1
Key Financial Highlights

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Solutions Updates
Hospitality Industry

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Solution Updates
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Caesars (USA) Palace to Introduce Stadia Bar
2
Solution Description
Caesars Palace is proud to announce the all-new Stadia Bar, anticipated to debut spring of 2021. Stadia will offer a next-level sports viewing experience with lavish
amenities, numerous large HD TVs, a menu overflowing with high-end and unique cocktail selections and more. Guests can casually hang out or catch the big game in
style with Stadia's rentable spaces to create an intimate viewing experience for small groups.The 120-seat bar and lounge will be a destination beyond game days, with
its modern seating and craft cocktail menu. Stadia's cocktail menu will feature an array of unique curated selections and an impressive list of highly allocated supreme
spirits. These sought-after brands are so rare, they are only available for purchase once a year, with the entire state receiving less than a case. Some of these include
Kentucky Owl 10 Year Rye, Pappy Van Winkle 13 Year Rye, Elmer T. Lee 100 Year Tribute and more. Stadia will also carry signature blends of whiskey that are
purchased by the barrel, providing guests a one-of-a-kind flavor profile that can only be tasted at Caesars Palace. Food items will also be available via mobile
ordering.Designed by the award-winning global architecture and design firm Rockwell Group, the all-new 2,186-square-foot sports hub will feature the excitement,
drama and grandeur of being seated in a live sports arena. Guests can choose to rise above the frenzy and sit at the elevated bar or reserve one of the five VIP
leather-wrapped domes, exclusively designed for Stadia Bar. Each dome creates the feeling of sitting within a vintage leather football helmet and gives guests an intimate
viewing area with their own LED screen. The domes are lined with a metal mesh and artwork by San Francisco-based public artist and mural painter, Apexer. Guests will
also notice sports-inspired design details such as net-like chandeliers, sconces that look like deconstructed baseballs and glove-like leather banquettes. Rockwell Group
has previously designed several Caesars Palace venues such as the first Nobu Hotel, one of the largest Nobu restaurants in the world, OMNIA Nightclub and Montecristo
Cigar Bar.

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Solution Updates
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InterContinental Hotels (USA): The Kimpton Sylvan Hotel opens in Atlanta,
Georgia
3
The highly anticipated Kimpton Sylvan Hotel in Atlanta has officially opened its doors to guests. Tucked away in the
elegant neighborhood of Buckhead, The Sylvan Hotel is a 1950s-era adaptive reuse boutique hotel with a mid-century
modern design scheme, complimented by a splash of understated sophistication and heartfelt Southern hospitality. The
hotel includes 217 guest rooms, a vibrant living room lobby, a refreshing private pool, and over 4,000 square feet of
meetings and events space. Aptly inspired by Atlanta’s nickname of “the city in a forest” and the arboreal abundance
in the hotel’s own backyard, the name “Sylvan” is derived from the Latin term “silva,” meaning “forest.” Themes of
trees, greenery, and nature resonate throughout the hotel, from the guest rooms to the lobby and beyond.

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IHG® (USA) Hotels & Resorts announces its first opening of 2021 in India
with Holiday Inn Chandigarh Zirakpur
4
IHG® Hotels & Resorts one of the world’s leading hotel companies, opens door to the newest hotel in the tricity – Holiday Inn Chandigarh
Zirakpur in association with ABC Sites Pvt Ltd. Featuring 131 keys with scenic city views, the hotel is located on Chandigarh- Ambala highway
connecting the city of Chandigarh to all famous landmarks and attractions in the Northern belt. Distanced just 20 minutes away from the
Chandigarh International Airport and 25 minutes from the Chandigarh Railway Station, the hotel is an ideal destination for leisure and business
travelers alike. Holiday Inn Chandigarh Zirakpur opens to a capacious lobby area and appoints modern rooms, finished with technological
additions and boasts of the largest gym in the Chandigarh city, spread across incredible area of 10,000 sq ft. Coupled with a dedicated team of
experts and hospitable staff members, the hotel also offers two distinctive dining options; an All Day Dining Restaurant – Viva that brings together
Indian, Italian and Asian cuisine and the Lounge Bar, overlooking the city, serving as the perfect spot for the guests to unwind and relax. Besides,
the new hotel provides an expansive indoor and outdoor space for corporate and social gatherings comprising of an impressive 8340 sq. ft. poolside
terrace and 26000 sq. ft. of banqueting space. The incomparable banqueting space with 7200 sq. ft. of pillar-less grand ballroom and 4440 sq. ft.
of pre-function area and rooftop pool terrace on the 14th floor that gives a 360-degree view of the city, makes the newly opened hotel a perfect
venue for all kind of celebrations and events.

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Marriott (USA): Moxy South Beach Debuts as a Stylish Playful Celebration of
Miami's Cosmopolitan Culture, Setting a New Paradigm for Leisure Travel
5
Miami’s Art Deco District lights up with the opening of Moxy Miami South Beach. Lightstone, the developers behind three award-winning
Moxy hotels in New York City, has created a stylish, playful open-air concept celebrating Miami’s cosmopolitan culture and breezy outdoor
living. With a design that blends the glamour of midcentury Havana, the artistry of contemporary Mexico City, and a tropical vibrancy that’s
unmistakably Miami, Moxy South Beach offers the dining, drinking, and lounging options that modern travelers crave, all located steps from
the sand. The 202-room, eight-story hotel, featuring two pools and the nearby Moxy Beach Club, will be the first resort-style property under
Marriott International’s Moxy Hotels® brand, marking a new chapter for hospitality in Miami Beach. Moxy South Beach is upending the way
travelers experience hotels in the New Year, from contactless check-in to indoor-outdoor lounging, meeting, fitness, and dining spaces. The
highly anticipated opening of Moxy South Beach comes at a pivotal time for Miami Beach, which is repositioning its traditional entertainment
district as the new “Art Deco District” — a reimagination of the historic neighborhood with Moxy South Beach at the forefront. Situated at a
cultural crossroads, nearby landmarks include the Miami Beach Convention Center, Wolfsonian-FIU Museum, Miami Beach Cinematheque,
Fillmore Miami Beach at the Jackie Gleason Theater, and The Webster boutique.

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Solution Updates
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Marriott International (USA) Celebrates Milestone 50th Hotel in Shanghai
Region with Opening of JW Marriott Hotel Shanghai Fengxian
6
Marriott International, Inc. announced the highly anticipated opening of JW Marriott Hotel Shanghai Fengxian, marking the historic 50th
Marriott International hotel to open in Shanghai. Located on Hangzhou Bay in the city’s Fengxian seaside district, just an hour’s drive
south of metropolitan Shanghai, the new hotel promises to be a sophisticated and luxurious sanctuary designed to let guest’s relax and
rediscover a sense of balance in mind and body, as well as a convenient gateway to Shanghai and nearby cities such as Hangzhou and
Suzhou.Fengxian is a suburban district south of Shanghai known for its rustic beachfront areas, national forest park and the old town
itself, a popular weekend destination for Shanghai residents. JW Marriott Hotel Shanghai Fengxian overlooks the nearby Jianhai Lake, a
wetland that connects Huangpu River and the East Sea. Designed by international design company PLD, the hotel's style narrative is
inspired by its natural surroundings, with its exterior imagined as the legendary bird Roc, from the fable of “Roc hopping into the sea”.
The design elements also incorporate natural materials such as wood and marble in undulating, curvilinear forms that reflect the waves
of the nearby East Sea. The hotel’s 265 guestrooms and suites offer luxurious comfort in restful shades of sable and blue, echoing the
beaches and sea with clean modern lines and every thoughtful amenity for guests' comfort and convenience.

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Solution Updates
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Spicy Chicken McNuggets and Mighty Hot Sauce Are Returning to
McDonald’s® (USA) …but Only Because You Asked So Nicely
7
McDonald’s Spicy Chicken McNuggets® and Mighty Hot Sauce will be returning to participating restaurants nationwide Feb. 1 for a limited time!
For those that need a refresher: Spicy Chicken McNuggets: Breaded with a sizzling tempura coating made with both cayenne and chili peppers,
Spicy Chicken McNuggets pack plenty of flavor and spice into each bite. Mighty Hot Sauce: Our new Mighty Hot Sauce dialed up the spice last
fall, boasting a powerful blend of crushed red pepper and cayenne peppers, all balanced with savory garlic and a hint of sweetness. This is both
McDonald’s hottest available dipping sauce and our first new sauce since 2017. As a bonus, from Feb. 2 - 6, customers can get a FREE 6-piece
Spicy Chicken McNuggets exclusively on their McDelivery with Door Dash* order of $20 or more, using code SPICY. When we introduced Spicy
Chicken McNuggets last year, it marked the first-ever McNugget flavor innovation since this iconic menu item was introduced in 1983. But over
their 40-year history, we’ve upgraded our beloved Chicken McNuggets several times – from rolling out new dipping sauces like Tangy Barbeque
and Honey Mustard to removing all artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors back in 2016. All to serve our customers even more of the flavors
and quality ingredients they love.So, let the countdown to Feb. 1 begin, and make sure to snag your Spicy Chicken McNuggets and Mighty Hot
Sauce orders fast, since the hottest menu items in town won’t stick around forever. And chicken fans can rest assured that we’re not stopping here
– be on the lookout for more delicious options hitting our menus soon.

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Solution Updates
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BetMGM(USA) Launches Mobile Sports Betting in Virginia
8
BetMGM launched its market-leading sports betting app in Virginia, giving customers access to a wide variety of betting options, as well
as benefits tied to MGM National Harbor in Maryland and MGM Resorts’ iconic casino-resorts throughout the United States.The
BetMGM app gives Virginia sports fans the opportunity to customize pre-game, live in-play, futures and parlay wagers. The app’s
integration with MGM Resorts’ M life Rewards program allows BetMGM customers to redeem their gameplay for world-class
accommodations at MGM Resorts properties nationwide, including MGM National Harbor, MGM Grand, Bellagio and ARIA in Las
Vegas, Borgata in New Jersey and Beau Rivage in Mississippi – among many more.Announcement follows BetMGM’s recently
announced partnership with the Washington Nationals, which includes plans for opening a retail BetMGM sportsbook connected to
Nationals Park. Scheduled to launch later this season, it will be BetMGM’s first in-stadium sportsbook.Virginia marks the 10th state
where BetMGM’s mobile sports betting offering is available. As BetMGM continues to expand to new areas, responsible gaming
education remains a key focus. BetMGM is proud to provide resources to help customers play responsibly. The BetMGM app is available
for download in Virginia on both iOS and Android.

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BetMGM(USA) Launches Sports Betting andIgaming Mobile App in
Michigan
9
BetMGM launched its market leading sports betting and iGaming app in Michigan, giving customers access to a wide variety of betting
options, as well as access to benefits tied to MGM Grand Detroit and MGM Resorts’ iconic casino-resorts nationwide. The BetMGM app
offers a user-friendly mobile gaming experience, giving sports fans in Michigan the opportunity to customize pre-game, live in-play,
futures and parlay wagers. App users can access an expansive array of casino games including slot tournaments, progressive jackpots
exclusive to Michigan, Blackjack, roulette and video poker. Integration with MGM Resorts’ M life Rewards program allows BetMGM
users in Michigan the opportunity to redeem their gameplay for world-class experiences at MGM Resorts properties nationwide,
including MGM Grand Detroit, as well as MGM Grand, Bellagio and ARIA in Las Vegas, Borgata in New Jersey, and Beau Rivage in
Mississippi. News follows recent announcements of BetMGM partnerships with the Detroit Lions and Detroit Red Wings, both of whom
have named BetMGM as an Official Sports Betting Partner. Michigan marks the ninth state in which BetMGM’s mobile sports betting is
available statewide, and the fourth state for its online casino. As BetMGM continues to expand its platforms to new states, responsible
gaming education remains a key focus. BetMGM is proud to provide resources to help customers play responsibly.

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RateGain Launches Canvas for Car Rentals to Tackle Price Volatility in the
New Normal
10
RateGain Technologies, a leading SaaS company for travel and hospitality, announced the launch of CarGain Canvas, an integrated market
position analytics application which utilizes leading indicators to help car rentals verify and rectify issues in their pricing strategy to enable
them to unlock new revenue in this highly uncertain environment.Due to the pandemic, car rentals are unable to track and anticipate demand
with precision. Furthermore, the lack of visibility leads to pricing challenges which directly impacts revenue optimization. CarGain Canvas
easy to use UI provides in-depth insights through leading indicators to help revenue managers track every market movement as well as reason
for changes while eliminating manual effort and errors. RateGain’sCarGain Canvas, the first such platform for the car rental industry identifies
profitable opportunities from millions of competitor rates, verifies demand indicators, and helps rectify pricing decisions with real-time alerts.
With easy-to-use filter options, car rentals can now analyze historical trends and track instant market changes by monitoring booking pace,
tracking utilization, and get a 360-degree view of the market.Pricing managers have traditionally used analytics to get trends based on
historical data which in the new normal is no longer a reliable source to make decisions. Using causal analytics as the base, CANVAS provides
pricing teams actions they should take based on the change happening in the market real-time.

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IHG (USA) introduces its luxury brand InterContinental in Morocco
11
IHG® Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has recently signed an agreement with Immohold
Hospitality, to introduce the InterContinental Hotels and Resorts brand in Rabat. The signing is aligned with IHG’s strategy
to build on its luxury portfolio and expand into key gateway markets across the MEA region. Expected to open in Q1 2022,
the 5-star luxury hotel will be situated in the heart of Morocco’s capital city. Ideal for business and leisure travellers, the hotel
will be perched within Rabat’s elite diplomatic district in proximity to a number of embassies and government institutions.
InterContinental Rabat will feature 156 exceptionally-deisgned guest rooms, 950 sqm of meeting space, a signature spa and
extensive health and fitness facilities. With five distinct dining destinations, guests will enjoy a variety of cuisine, from
authentic to contemporary options. IHG currently operates 116 hotels across 7 brands in the Middle East and Africa,
including: InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Staybridge Suites, voco™and Six Senses with
a further 53 in the development pipeline due to open within the next three to five years.

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Rewards & Recognition

R & R Updates
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Aramark (USA) Named A Top 50 Employer for People With Disabilities
For The Seventh Consecutive Year
12
Aramark a global leader in food, facilities management and uniforms, has again been named a Top 50 employer by
CAREERS & the Disabled magazine, for providing a positive working environment for people with disabilities. This is
the seventh year in a row the Company is being recognized with this honor.he readers of CAREERS & the disABLED
magazine selected the top companies in the country for which they would most prefer to work or believe provide a positive
working environment for people with disabilities. Aramark’s Thrive employee resource group (ERG) is dedicated to team
members who self-identify as having a disability and for caretakers and advocates of those with disabilities. Through
Aramark Thrive, the company is embracing personal connections to advance awareness and inclusion for people with
unique challenges and providing them and their support network with opportunities to share their stories. Aramark Thrive
encourages self-identification and transparency, so that employees will take advantage of what Aramark offers, gain
support, and/or provide coaching.
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Aramark (USA) Earns Top Marks in Human Rights Campaign’s 2021
Corporate Equality Index
13
The seventh consecutive year, Aramark a global leader in food, facilities management and uniforms, proudly announced that it received a score of
100 on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s 2021 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), the nation’s foremost benchmarking survey and report
measuring corporate policies and practices related to LGBTQ workplace equality.The results of the 2021 CEI showcase how U.S.-based
companies are not only promoting LGBTQ-friendly workplace policies in the U.S., but also for the 57% of CEI-rated companies with global
operations who are helping advance the cause of LGBTQ inclusion in workplaces abroad. Aramark’s efforts in satisfying all of the CEI’s criteria
earned a 100 percent ranking and the designation as one of the Best Places to Work for LGBTQ Equality.The CEI rates companies on detailed
criteria falling under four central pillars: non-discrimination policies across business entities; equitable benefits for LGBTQ workers and their
families; supporting an inclusive culture; and, corporate social responsibility.Aramark has ten employee resource groups (ERGs), including
Aramark Pride, which focuses on fostering an open, inclusive environment in which LGBTQ employees and allies are fully engaged to achieve
organizational goals and enhance professional growth. Pride's goals include enhancing Aramark's competitive advantages as an LGBTQ-friendly
employer and business partner as well as engaging employees by encouraging them to bring their “whole selves” to work.
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Caesars Entertainment (USA) is Nationally Recognized for Corporate
Social Responsibility and Climate Action Leadership
14
Caesars entertainment,Incthe largest gaming and Entertainment Company in the U.S., shares prestigious recognition for its leadership and efforts in corporate
social responsibility. In an unprecedented year with many setbacks, Caesars Entertainment met the challenges of 2020 with determination and proudly
provided support to its Team Members and communities it serves. Rising 42 slots from the previous year, Caesars now ranks No. 104 on Newsweek's list of
"America's Most Responsible Companies," occupying the top spot in the Entertainment, Leisure and Dining category. Determined by publicly available
environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) data and survey feedback from 7,500 Americans, Newsweek recognizes Caesars out of a pool of over
2,000 of the country's largest revenue-generating corporations. Awarded for leadership in corporate sustainability by global environmental non-profit CDP,
Caesars secures two places on the "A-List" for tackling climate change, as well as addressing water security. As one of a small number of companies that
achieved a double "A," Caesars' score is based on data submitted to CDP in 2020 and acknowledges the Company's commitment to significantly reduce
Scope 1 and 2 emissions and water consumption across all destinations throughout the country. Additionally, Caesars received a perfect 100% score from the
Human Rights Campaign Foundation's Corporate Equality Index for the 14th consecutive year. Designating Caesars as a "Best Place to Work for LGBTQ
Equality," the index is a national benchmarking tool on corporate policies and practices as they pertain to LGBTQ employees, covering criteria including
workplace protection, inclusive benefits, supporting an inclusive culture and responsible corporate citizenship.
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Hilton’s (USA) Luxury Brands in Asia Shine in Condé Nast Traveler 2020
Readers’ Choice Awards
15
Condé Nast Traveler has revealed the results of its 33rd annual Readers’ Choice Awards, recognizing the Waldorf
Astoria Hotels & Resorts and Conrad Hotels & Resorts brands, part of Hilton'sLuxury Group, across Asia Pacific with
six property wins. The Waldorf Astoria brand in China shone through with three prestigious property wins. Waldorf
Astoria Beijing was crowned the top spot in China in addition to being ranked amongst the world’s top 50 hotels; whilst
Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund placed second and Waldorf Astoria Chengdu placed 15th in China. Hilton’s
Conrad resorts in Bora Bora and the Maldives also gained coveted spots in their respective market categories, securing
their place amongst the most desired resorts for travelers to the two destinations, as did Conrad Tokyo in Japan’s Top
10 list.
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Marriott International (USA) Earns 100% Perfect Score on 2021 Human
Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index
16
Marriott International, Inc. has been named, for the eighth consecutive year, among America’s top corporations for
lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) equality, by again earning a perfect 100 percent score on the Human
Rights Campaign’s (HRC) 2021 Corporate Equality Index (CEI). As the national benchmarking tool measuring
policies, practices and benefits pertinent to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) employees, the Human
Rights Campaign Foundation’s Corporate Equality Index is a primary driving force for LGBT workplace
inclusion.Marriott International, Inc is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of more than
7,500 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 132 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels
and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy™, its highly
awarded travel program.
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Human Rights Campaign Names MGM Resorts (USA) International One
ofthe “Best Places to Work forLGBTQ Equality”
17
MGM Resorts International is proud to announce that it received a perfect score of 100 on the 2021 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), for
the 10th consecutive year. CEI is the nation’s premier benchmarking survey and report on corporate policies and practices related to
LGBTQ workplace equality, administered by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation. MGM Resorts joins the ranks of 767
major U.S. businesses that also earned top marks this year. The Human Rights Campaign Foundation is the educational arm of America’s
largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual transgender and queer people. HRC envisions a
world where LGBTQ people are embraced as full members of society at home, at work and in every community. MGM Resorts has a
record of support of the LGBTQ community, as a National Corporate Partner of HRC and otherwise; For example, MGM Resorts was a
founding partner of the Las Vegas chapter of the Human Rights Campaign in 2004. In 2011, MGM Resorts expanded its supplier and
construction diversity programs to include lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBTQ)-owned firms. Years before same-sex
marriage was legalized across the entire United States, same-sex commitment ceremonies were performed at chapels at MGM Resorts’
properties, which continue to develop specialized marriage ceremony offerings and outreach to same-sex couples.
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Whitbread (UK) Named ‘Top Employer’
18
Whitbread has been confirmed as one of the UK’s top places to work. Global certification company The Top
Employers Institute has confirmed Whitbread as a Top Employer, recognition that only goes to those businesses that
create excellent working environments.The accreditation involved a comprehensive and detailed analysis of the people
practices across the whole of Whitbread’s well-loved hospitality brands including Premier Inn, Beefeater and Brewers
Fayre as well as support centre. It covers areas such as talent management, culture and learning and development.
These practices are carefully assessed, validated and benchmarked by the Top Employers Institute. Top Employers
provide benchmarking across these areas, helping businesses understand how they compare to other external
organisations, as well as providing invaluable insight into areas where the business is performing well.
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Yum! (USA) Brands Named to 2021 Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index
19
Yum! Brandswere named to the 2021 Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index (GEI) for the Company’s commitment to
advancing women’s equality and transparency in gender reporting. Yum! is one of 380 companies included on the 2021
Bloomberg GEI, which covers 11 sectors across 44 countries and regions, and brings transparency around
gender-related practices and policies by encouraging disclosure of environmental, social and governance (ESG)
data.Yum! Brands have a long history of investing in its people-first culture which includes a focus on equity and
inclusion and is illustrated in part by the advancement of women. In line with the Paradigm for Parity® coalition’s goal
to advance women to senior roles and achieve gender parity in leadership globally by 2030, more than 40% of Yum!
Brands’ global leadership positions are now held by women, making more progress in two years than in the previous
10.
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Whitbread (USA):It’s Electrifying! / We’re Plugged Inn
20
Whitbread – owner of brands including Premier Inn hotels and restaurants Beefeater and Brewers’ Fayre has announced it has struck a deal with energy giant
ENGIE, to deliver the UK hospitality sector’s biggest roll-out of high-powered electric charging points.Whitbread, which has over 800 hotels across the UK and
more car park locations than the NCP, aims to install up to a thousand GeniePoint Network rapid charging points, beginning with 600 committed over the next
three years as part of its Force for Good sustainability scheme. To mark the announcement which, once completed, will be a major boost to the nation’s charging
infrastructure, the UK’s largest hotel chain, has ‘electrified’ its logo by ‘plugging in’ its famous moon logo and is renaming itself Plugged Inn for the day. News of
the innovation – the UK hospitality sector’s largest roll out to date - will satisfy increasing consumer and guest demand for electric charging points as the car
industry becomes progressively more electric. Whitbread’s move has been made as part of the company’s wider sustainability commitment to reduce its
environmental impact through its Force for Good Sustainability programme. The company recently announced its commitment to net zero carbon emissions by
2050.Major new product launches, such as the Ford E-Transit van illustrate that electric charging is becoming increasingly important to a business as well as
private vehicle market – meaning the move will likely be welcomed by business and leisure travellers alike. Access to the charging points will be for guests as well
as members of the public using ENGIE’s GeniePoint Network and will ensure electric car owners can relax knowing there are even more locations being added in
easy-to-reach-places - with many in key strategic locations in towns and cities across the UK. ENGIE will install high-power chargers which will enable cars to
replenish in around 30 minutes. The facility is therefore likely to be attractive to people ‘on the move’ as well as hotel and restaurant guests.
Description

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Partner Ecosystem

Partner Ecosystem Updates
IT Shades
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Park Institute of America Announces Partnerships with Aramark (USA) and
Wild Tribute
21
The Park Institute of America, a not-for-profit organization that seeks to maintain the integrity and vibrancy of America's National Parks and
ensure that the country's valuable cultural and environmental resources endure, announced partnerships with Aramark and Wild Tribute, an apparel
company founded to honor the national parks and public lands and to support America’s “Wild and Historic Places.” As the concessioner and
hospitality partner for America’s most premier national and state parks and other leading leisure and cultural attractions, this announcement
exemplifies Aramark’s robust environmental stewardship. Collectively, these organizations will support the parks through Wild Tribute’s “4 the
Parks” initiative, which pays homage to adventures and nature and supports programs such as restoring trails and planting 50 million trees for the
National Forest Foundation. Wild Tribute’s custom designed “4 the Parks” brand t-shirt design will be sold online or in Aramark-managed retail
outlets at national and state parks, with 4% of the proceeds donated to the efforts of the Park Institute of America. Aramark partners with the
country’s top travel destinations and vacation spots to deliver innovative hospitality, recreational and interpretive programs, including Crater Lake
National Park, Denali National Park & Preserve, Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, Mesa Verde National Park, Olympic National Park, Glen
Canyon National Recreation Area, Olympic National Forest, Lake Tahoe Basin National Forest, Yosemite National Park, and Colonial
Williamsburg.
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IHG (USA) signs MDA with Ishraq Hospitality to open 8 new Holiday Inn
Express hotels across MEA
22
IHG® Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has recently signed a Master Development Agreement (MDA) with Ishraq
Hospitality, a division of the Dubai-based Mohamed & Obaid Almulla Group, to develop eight hotels across IHG’s midscale brand, Holiday Inn
Express, in the MEA region. The multi-property portfolio license will see new hotel openings in the United Arab Emirates, Sultanate of Oman,
Bahrain, Jordan and Egypt in the near term. Ishraq Hospitality, which operates HIEX under the IHG franchise, currently owns four Holiday Inn
Express hotels in the UAE in partnership with IHG. Holiday Inn Express is one of IHG’s fastest-growing hotel brands - a first choice for the
increasing number of travelers who need a simple, engaging place to rest, recharge and get a little work done. The agreement will mark the first
Holiday Inn Express hotels in Oman, Bahrain, Jordan and Egypt where there is an expected build-up of demand for midscale, branded
accommodation to cater to business and leisure tourists alike. The brand debuts will strengthen IHG’s existing Holiday Inn brand family portfolio
and solidify IHG’s position as one of the leading hospitality players across the region.Ishraq Hospitality has an excellent track record in hospitality
management and the agreement will see it expand its horizons to create a regional footprint. IHG currently operates 95 hotels across 7 brands in
the Middle East, including: InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Staybridge Suites, voco™and Six Senses with a
further 42 in the development pipeline due to open within the next three to five years.
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Marriott International (USA) Expects to More than Double All-Inclusive
Portfolio in an Agreement with Sunwing Travel Group
23
Marriott International, Inc announced a significant planned expansion of its all-inclusive portfolio through a long-term
agreement with Sunwing Travel Group’s hotel division, Blue Diamond Resorts, which has an extensive portfolio of resort
properties throughout the Caribbean, Central America, and Mexico. The agreement is expected to propel Marriott into the list
of top 10 global all-inclusive players by adding 19 franchised resorts totaling nearly 7,000 rooms across six destinations and
more than doubling the company’s presence in the all-inclusive segment to 33 properties by 2025. The majority of the
properties are expected to be converted into Marriott’s Autograph Collection by mid-2021. Marriott International launched its
multi-brand all-inclusive portfolio platform in August 2019 and has 9 open hotels across Costa Rica, Barbados, and Mexico
with an additional 5 hotels in the pipeline in Mexico, Curacao, Dominican Republic, Jamaica and Brazil. With agreement,
another 19 are expected to join the portfolio. The platform will provide the company’s 145 million Marriott Bonvoy members
the option to earn and redeem points for the convenient, pay-one-price concept.
Description

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BetMGM(USA) And Topgolf Announce Integrated Sports Betting and
Entertainment Partnership
24
BetMGM and Topgolf Entertainment Group announced a new partnership centered around an integrated sports betting
and entertainment experience. The two companies will collaborate on marketing and promotional offers through the
BetMGM platform at select Topgolf venues and within WGT by Topgolf, the leading online golf game which has been
part of the Topgolf family since 2016. The partnership will allow Topgolf and BetMGM to engage with consumers on
a large scale while reaching new audiences, both digitally and in-person.Details of the partnership include BetMGM
digital branding throughout Topgolf venues in cities where BetMGM operates, including Topgolf’s marquee Las Vegas
location at MGM Grand; Indianapolis; Nashville; Detroit; Virginia Beach; and Denver, as well as within the WGT by
Topgolf platform. BetMGM will also activate branding and promotional integrations in additional Topgolf locations as
its sports betting and gaming platforms become available in new states.
Description

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MGM Resorts International (USA): Mandalay Bay and Anheuser-Busch Announce
Multi-Year Naming Rights Partnership for Sports and Entertainment Venue
25
Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino announced it has entered into a multi-year naming rights agreement with industry-leading beverage
company Anheuser-Busch. The deal, negotiated by MGM Resorts International, will rename the resort’s 12,000-seat sports and
entertainment venue in Las Vegas the “Michelob ULTRA Arena.”The agreement’s integration will feature a variety of assets inside the
Michelob ULTRA Arena and at select bars and lounges throughout the property. Anheuser-Busch will have the opportunity to sponsor
various activations and exclusive on-property special events through the duration of the agreement. The newly named Michelob ULTRA
Arena in Las Vegas is one of the industry’s leading destinations for live events, hosting professional and college basketball, major-artist
concerts and championship boxing, among others. The arena is home to the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces, and has hosted high-profile events
including Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) events, Latin GRAMMYs, NHL Awards, Latin Billboard Awards, International
Swimming League’s world finals, Miss USA pageant, and more.In 2019, the arena completed a venue refresh with major renovations that
enhance the guest event experience, including upgrades to the venue’s seating, concourse and in-arena signage, food and beverage
options, locker rooms, technology and lighting system.
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IDeaS and RateGain Expand Partnership to Deliver Actionable Real-time
Intelligence for Hotels
26
RateGain Technologies, the leading SaaS Company for travel and hospitality, announced a global strategic partnership
with IDeaS, a pioneer and global technology leader offering revenue management solution, to deliver real-time and
AI-powered rate intelligence to IDeaS customers across the globe. The need to address real-time changes is critical in
the Post-COVID world as the hospitality industry tries to tackle demand and price volatility. To solve for revenue
optimization, IDeaS strengthened its existing partnership with RateGain whereby RateGain dynamic data is now
integrated with IDeaS applications. The partnership will help hotels now access accurate and real-time data at scale
through RateGain’s OPTIMA, powered by AI-driven dataSURE, which ensures up to 99% data sufficiency. In
addition, hotels will also get access to industry-leading features such as Cluster Dashboards, Airbnb insights, Geo
Source tracking, LoS restrictions tracking and Lightning refresh.
Description

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Environment & Social

Environment & Social Updates
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Aramark (USA) Sets New Climate Goal, Commits to Reducing Greenhouse
Gas Emissions by 15% by the End of 2025
27
Just one year after introducing its sustainability plan, Be Well. Do Well., Aramark the leading U.S.-based provider of food, facilities and uniform services,
announced its commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 15% by the end of 2025 (from its 2019 baseline) in the United States, thus decreasing its carbon
footprint.commitment builds on the Company’s current practices to reduce emissions, which include efforts to increase responsible sourcing and operate
efficiently, minimize food waste and to reduce packaging. This commitment was announced along with the Company’s 2020 Be Well. Do Well. Impact Report,
which also provides details on its efforts to enable equity and wellbeing for millions of people. Aramark sharpened its focus on equity, both inside and outside the
Company, in 2020. Whether through its work with the American Heart Association to help improve the health of all Americans, the efforts of employee resource
groups (ERGs), working with diverse-owned businesses, or covering college tuition costs for front-line team members, Aramark understands the critical
importance of addressing systemic issues that have an impact on specific communities and groups. Despite the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic,
the Company has continued to make progress against its environmental goals. This includes progress toward its No-Deforestation Policy, increasing plant-forward
menu options, and reducing red meat by 12%, all of which reduce impact on planet, as well as completing its transition to 100% cage-free liquid and processed
eggs in the United States. Aramark is also proud to be the first food service provider to join the Ocean Plastics Leadership Network (OPLN), a pre-competitive
forum bringing together NGOs, academia and industry leaders, to address the global plastics crisis.
Description

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Miscellaneous

Miscellaneous Updates
IT Shades
Engage & Enable
Marriott (USA) Bonvoy Mobile App Refreshed to Offer a More Intuitive and
Personalized Experience in Anticipation of Increased Desire for Travel
28
Marriott Bonvoy, the travel marketplace and highly awarded travel program from Marriott International, has released a
redesigned, more intuitive version of its mobile app in anticipation of increased desire and demand for travel this year.
Featuring new travel shopping options based on inspiring destinations and access to more of Marriott’s vast travel
offerings such as premium vacation rentals from Homes & Villas by Marriott International as well as destination tours and
activities, the app will offer members even more personalized recommendations and offers to maximize their points
earned when traveling and even when they are not. As the centerpiece of the company’s mobile-first mindset, the Marriott
Bonvoy app ensures guests receive the best available rate; enjoy program benefits such as exclusive member rates and
accruing points for stays; and enables members to customize their experience. The app will make it easier for guests to
choose a contactless option for check-in and check-out, easy access to mobile keys, and the ability to request services and
amenities via chat and mobile requests.
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