Few are fortunate enough to learn this basic rule in the tiny kitchen of their family's restaurant, but that's precisely Iris' story.

Roman-born and bred, "Nonna Iris" started helping her own mother and grandmother with their business at the age of 13. Now 93 years old, she actively runs five successful restaurants in Rome, plus three in Milan and one in Bologna. She has no intentions of slowing down, either. Nonna Iris is eager to share her favorite Roman delicacies not just with Italians but with the rest of the world: a great undertaking for a great achiever.

The restaurant Nonna Iris opened in Miami last year – "Osteria da Fortunata" – bears her own grandmother's name. It was Iris herself who came, saw, and conquered the Sunshine State with her homemade desserts and pasta made right in front of her guests. Only after she had personally taken care of every detail did Iris feel that she could go back to her beloved Rome, where she is affectionately known as the "Carbonara Queen."

What is the secret behind her success? Nonna Iris says it's all about that rule of kindness – simply giving people good food to eat and making sure to put family first. Notwithstanding the growth of her restaurants, all of them are owned and managed by Iris' extended family of 40 people, providing work for another 480.

Layers of time shape the life of this unique family business, whose origin can be tracked back to Iris' grandmother in the 1920s. Classic recipes like carbonara and amatriciana are the driving forces behind this century of uninterrupted pasta making, still coveted, still a taste of the Rome of Old.

But this begs the question – why the big move to Florida for people so strongly rooted in their Roman turf? Simply put, Iris felt a moral obligation to repay people in some way for their support. Tourists visiting the Eternal City – especially from the U.S. – would often end up in one of the original "Osteria da Fortunata" restaurants in Italy, get to know her, and love her. At that point, the idea of bringing a piece of their experience directly to them, for them to enjoy on their side of the ocean, came naturally. In the end, isn't that also part of that "cycle of kindness" that binds people together while they're gathered around a table?

In Miami, Nonna Iris could even spot familiar faces she had already seen in her Roman restaurants. To all who would inquire about the secret to her long life, she would invariably answer: "How to live like me? Stay true to your roots!"

Osteria da Fortunata607 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach 33139 Florida

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2457001/Osteria_da_Fortunata.jpgLogo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2457002/Osteria_da_Fortunata_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Osteria da Fortunata

The new destinations include:

• Cambria Hotel Denver Downtown RiNo
  • The new Cambria Hotel in Denver Downtown RiNo puts guests in the trendy heart of Denver's River North Art District. Revamped industrial buildings are home to some of the hippest mural art, live music and food trucks the city has to offer. The 153-guestroom property, which opened in May, reflects the city's industrial roots and the transformation it has undergone, while the design embodies the creative spirit that has given the city new life and inspires guests to take a fresh look at the possibilities the town may hold. The hotel has 1,192 sq. ft. of meeting space.
• Cambria Hotel Niagara Falls 
  • This new boutique hotel, which opened in March, is just blocks away from the roaring rapids of the Niagara River and Niagara Falls State Park – home to the world-famous waterfalls. More attractions are just minutes away, including Destination Niagara Visitor Center, Aquarium of Niagara, Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds and Seneca Niagara Casino. Located within steps of the Niagara Gorge, the Cambria Hotel, with 120 guestrooms and 960 sq. ft. of meeting space, is designed with local charm in mind, while highlighting upscale amenities that let guests make the most of their visit.
• Cambria Hotel North Conway
  • The perfect homebase for sunny and snowy journeys alike, Cambria North Conway is New Hampshire's newest gateway for White Mountain adventures. With 115 guestrooms, an indoor pool, 1,550 sq. ft. of meeting space, contemporary comforts, tastes of local flavors and close proximity to Mt. Washington, this hotel invites every explorer to recharge for everything tomorrow may bring. The hotel opened recently on June 6.
• Cambria Hotel Rehoboth Beach
  • The Cambria Hotel Rehoboth Beach in Rehoboth, DE is where guests can make the most of their time visiting one of the most coveted destinations on the Eastern Seaboard. With 106 guestrooms and 6,400 sq. ft. of meeting space, the boutique hotel offers the premium amenities including an outdoor pool, spacious suites and unique destination-inspired décor guests would expect from an upscale hotel. This property, which opened in May, has created a getaway resort-feel, whether traveling near or far, and a classic, refined, and enticing interior with vintage beach nods, fit for any type of traveler.

These new properties, along with Choice's portfolio of brands including Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson Individuals, Radisson RED, and others, are connected by the award-winning rewards program, Choice Privileges. Through the program, members can earn and redeem points at over 7,000 hotels across a diverse portfolio of brands with locations in 45 countries and territories. With the Choice Privileges Mastercard, cardholders can earn even more points faster, including on everyday purchases including gas and groceries.

Choice Hotels knows that while its franchisees are in business for themselves, they are never by themselves, with the operations and management systems and tools Choice provides. All owners and operators have access to Choice Hotel's suite of proprietary, cutting-edge cloud-based solutions, including the choiceEDGE guest reservation platform, the choiceADVANTAGE property management system, and Your Key to Profit, a mobile-friendly platform with profitability tools including G3, a revenue management resource to help franchisees effectively manage room rates, distribution channels and inventory. Additionally, Choice University, the most widely awarded learning program in the hospitality industry, delivers customized and always-evolving learning and development resources. From pre-opening to grand opening and every day forward, Choice provides hotel owners with best-in-class resources to help them maximize the return on their investment.

For more information on Cambria Hotels development opportunities, visit www.choicehotelsdevelopment.com/cambriahotels.

About Cambria^® Hotels
The Cambria Hotels brand is designed for the modern traveler, offering guests a distinct experience with simple, guilt-free indulgences allowing them to treat themselves while on the road. Cambria properties feature compelling design inspired by the location, spacious and comfortable rooms, flexible meeting spaces, and locally-inspired food and beverages. Cambria Hotels is rapidly expanding in major U.S. cities, with more than 70 hotels open in locations like Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., Nashville, and Phoenix. Cambria was ranked #1 in the upscale segment in the J.D. Power 2023 North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Index Study. To learn more, visit www.choicehotels.com/cambria.  

About Choice Hotels® Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) is one of the largest lodging franchisors in the world. The challenger in upscale and a leader in midscale and extended stay, Choice® has nearly 7,500 hotels, representing more than 630,000 rooms, in 45 countries and territories. A diverse portfolio of 22 brands that range from full-service upper upscale properties to midscale, extended stay and economy enables Choice^® to meet travelers' needs in more places and for more occasions while driving more value for franchise owners and shareholders. The award-winning Choice Privileges® rewards program and co-brand credit card options provide members with a fast and easy way to earn reward nights and personalized perks. For more information, visit www.choicehotels.com. © 2024 Choice Hotels International, Inc. All Rights Reserved

Addendum This is not an offering. No offer or sale of a franchise will be made except by a Franchise Disclosure Document first filed and registered with applicable state authorities. A copy of the Franchise Disclosure Document can be obtained through contacting Choice Hotels International at 915 Meeting Street, Suite 600, North Bethesda, Maryland 20852 or by email at: [email protected].

SOURCE Choice Hotels International, Inc.

Davis Food & Drug partners with Instacart to enhance shopping experience with AI-powered smart carts

SAN FRANCISCO and VERNAL, Utah, Aug. 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Davis Food & Drug, a prominent three-store grocery chain in Utah, and Instacart (NASDAQ: CART), the leading grocery technology company in North America, today announced a new partnership to replace the majority of its traditional shopping carts with Instacart's artificial intelligence-powered (AI) smart carts at all Davis Food & Drug locations in Utah in the coming months. 

Customers shopping in these stores can now enjoy a more personalized shopping experience using Caper Carts that feature an interactive screen to engage customers, track spending for budget-friendly shopping, and directly access coupons and deals through Davis Food & Drug's loyalty program. Caper Carts are used by people of all ages, from families with kids to senior citizens, and are especially popular among couples and families. Caper Carts check off items as they are added to the cart and engage customers throughout the entire shopping journey – from personalized recommendations as they shop to gamified elements that reward customers once a spending threshold is achieved.

"At Davis Food & Drug, putting our customers first is at the heart of everything we do. Introducing Caper Carts is part of our ongoing commitment to not just keep up with industry trends, but to lead them, ensuring our customers enjoy the most convenient and innovative shopping experience possible," said Constantine Davis, President at Davis Food & Drug. "This is how we're growing our business - by making every visit to our stores easier, rewarding, and more fun for everyone who walks through our doors."

"Davis Food & Drug has been a fantastic partner since their adoption of Rosie in 2016, and we're thrilled to now team up and bring Caper Carts to their stores," said Nick Nickitas, General Manager, Local Independent Grocery at Instacart."We're proud to provide local grocery partners like Davis Food & Drug with tech solutions that seamlessly connect their in-store and online offerings and deliver personalized experiences through convenient, cost-effective options."

Davis Food & Drug first partnered with Instacart's Rosie in 2016, and continues to forge ahead with technological advancements in the retail space. Caper Cart is part of Connected Stores, Instacart's suite of in-store technologies that help grocers bridge the online and in-store shopping experience. To learn more about Caper Cart and other Connected Stores technologies, visit instacart.com/company/connected-stores.

To learn more about shopping with Davis Food & Drug or to find a store near you, visit: https://www.davisfoodanddrug.com/

About InstacartInstacart, the leading grocery technology company in North America, works with grocers and retailers to transform how people shop. The company partners with more than 1,500 national, regional, and local retail banners to facilitate online shopping, delivery and pickup services from more than 85,000 stores across North America on the Instacart Marketplace. Instacart makes it possible for millions of people to get the groceries they need from the retailers they love, and for approximately 600,000 Instacart shoppers to earn by picking, packing and delivering orders on their own flexible schedule. The Instacart Platform offers retailers a suite of enterprise-grade technology products and services to power their e-commerce experiences, fulfill orders, digitize brick-and-mortar stores, provide advertising services, and glean insights. With Instacart Ads, thousands of CPG brands – from category leaders to emerging brands – partner with the company to connect directly with consumers online, right at the point of purchase. With Instacart Health, the company is providing tools to increase nutrition security, make healthy choices easier for consumers, and expand the role that food can play in improving health outcomes. For more information, visit www.instacart.com/company, and to start shopping, visit www.instacart.com.

About Davis Food & DrugDavis Food & Drug is a family-owned business serving the Vernal, Roosevelt, and La Verkin communities since 1988. Founded by Jim and Debbie Davis, who relocated from Jackson Hole, WY, the company began with the acquisition of two local grocery stores, and later adding a third. Over the years, Davis Food & Drug has expanded and modernized its offerings, including the addition of a deli, bakery, enhanced floral, and service centers. In 2009, the founders' sons, Constantine  and Lee, joined the business, further strengthening its family-oriented roots. Committed to innovation and community service, Davis Food & Drug partnered with Rosie in 2016 to introduce online grocery ordering, demonstrating its ongoing dedication to providing cutting-edge services to its customers.

SOURCE Instacart

BETHESDA, Md., July 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- LuminoCity Festival Inc. (LuminoCity), a women and minority-owned light sculpture festival, recently held a grand opening for its Dino Safari Festival in Montgomery County, Maryland. This festival runs now through August 4, 2024, at the Westfield Montgomery Mall, located at 7101 Democracy Boulevard in Bethesda, MD. The festival is open Monday through Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Tickets are available for purchase online at luminocityfestival.com or onsite. 

As part of the grand opening, a ceremony was held with speeches given by local officials including:  

"Thank you for the imagination, thank you for the inspiration, and it's amazing to see the extraordinary execution of Luminocity." Said Andrew Friedson, Council President of District 1, during his speech.  

The festival combines education and entertainment, featuring rides and attractions including the Dino Speedway, T-Rex Thrill Experience, Jungle Explorer Playground, Dino Carousel, and Oviraptor Ride, making it a perfect family-friendly outing. 

Local organizations including the National Center for Children and Families (NCCF) also attended, bringing out children and families that otherwise might not have been able to attend and experience the magical moments and smiles the festival brings.  

"Our return to Maryland was a fantastic celebration," said Xiaoyi Chen, Founder of LuminoCity. "We are thankful for the support from local officials, and the organizations in which we partner with. We know the community will enjoy our new attractions that guarantee fun for all ages."  

Ticket Information

• Dates: July 4 - August 4, 2024
• Location: Westfield Montgomery Mall, Bethesda, Maryland
• Hours: Monday to Thursday, 5:30 - 9:30 p.m.; Friday to Sunday, 5:00 - 10:00 p.m.
• Tickets: Available online at luminocityfestival.com or onsite
• Pricing: $16 - $20 per person; children 3 and under free
• Accessibility: ADA-compliant and stroller-friendly

About LuminoCity Festival  
LuminoCity was created to offer unforgettable experiences through light and imagination. They transform creative thoughts into illuminating works of light and color. Each year, they introduce new and unique pieces of art to their festivals, including LuminoCity, Holiday Lights, and Dino Safari. For more information, visit luminocityfestival.com. 

Media contact: [email protected]

SOURCE LuminoCity Festival

The schedule of this epic opening is as follows at 10am-Noon radio station 105.5 FM WDHA of Beasley Media Group will be there remotely, playing music and providing customer with free station giveaways.

Wanaque Buffalo Wild Wings Go local franchisee Bill Mulholland invited local & county officials as well as local first responders for the official ribbon cutting.  Council President Thomas Balunis & Councilman Ed Leonard confirmed attendance.

With the Wanaque Buffalo Wild Wings GO, guests have the option to order takeout or delivery, as well as in-store seating for dining at the restaurant. The Buffalo Wild Wings GO concept, which officially launched in 2020, is designed to streamline guests' orders whether they decide to dine-in or enjoy their meal on-the-go. 

"We are so excited to bring the convenience and great taste of Buffalo Wild Wings GO to Wanaque," said Bill Mulholland, Wanaque Buffalo Wild Wings franchisee. "For years, frequenting Buffalo Wild Wings has been a part of our family traditions, and we look forward to bringing that sense of community and tradition to the Wanaque area for years to come!"

The new Wanaque location offers traditional and boneless wings, hand-breaded tenders, chicken sandwiches, burgers, sides, and all 26 Buffalo Wild Wings signature sauces and dry rubs. The new restaurant employs 30 crew members and is open Sunday through Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.

ABOUT BUFFALO WILD WINGS
Buffalo Wild Wings, founded in 1982, is the largest sports bar brand in the United States. Globally, there are more than 1,200 restaurants in nine countries. Buffalo Wild Wings is part of the Inspire Brands family of restaurants. For more information, visit BuffaloWildWings.com and InspireBrands.com.

*No Purchase Necessary. Open to New Jersey residents in the Wanaque area, must be 18+/age to qualify.  Ends July 16, 2024. Official rules available upon request at 1353 Ringwood Ave. Wanaque NJ 07465. "Free Wings for a Year" recipients receive a voucher for 6 wings every week for 52 weeks. Valid only at 1353 Ringwood Ave. Wanaque NJ 07465. ©2024  

Media Contact:Blaise ScibettaSouthern Ocean Consulting LLC www.helpmyboss.com 609-756-7290 [email protected] 

SOURCE Buffalo Wild Wings GO

BETHESDA, Md., July 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Marriott Hotels, the signature flag of Marriott Bonvoy's portfolio of more than 30 extraordinary brands, hasn't just set the standard for hospitality, it's raised it: innovating at every opportunity and earning the trust of travelers all around the globe. Building on its legacy, the brand is redefining the all-inclusive vacation with the grand opening of its newest property, Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort. This debut marks a new era for Marriott Hotels as its first all-inclusive resort, inviting guests of all ages and generations to immerse themselves in enriching experiences, captivating entertainment, and vibrant local culture.

All-Inclusive Getaways are Getting a Makeover with Marriott Hotels' Market EntryMarriott Hotels' foray into the all-inclusive market underscores its dedication to meeting the increasing demand for multigenerational travel experiences. Recent data shows that over 50% of parents are planning trips involving grandparents and children¹, highlighting a growing preference for inclusive and hassle-free vacation options. By entering this sector now, Marriott Hotels reaffirms its commitment to providing unforgettable stays that emphasize relaxation, care, and shared moments — all in one convenient location. Family is at the heart of Marriott Hotels, and with its extensive resort portfolio of over 70 locations worldwide, the brand aims to foster human connection through the lens of Wonderful Hospitality - whether it's couples or friends traveling together, solo guests enjoying some me-time, or families traveling with children of all ages.

"Marriott Hotels' new all-inclusive experience is designed to empower and inspire guests of all ages to connect in meaningful ways," said Drew Iddings, Vice President, Premium Classic Brands. "It's about more than just a vacation - it's about creating unforgettable memories where relaxation, care, and curiosity converge. We're dedicated to creating enriching moments of togetherness, and our commitment to tailored leisure travel will continue to strengthen as we grow in this segment. Our debut property in Cancun perfectly embodies the Marriott Hotels' All-Inclusive promise; with its beautiful surroundings, world-class amenities and wonderful hospitality, there is truly something for everyone."

Cancun is Calling, with a New Beachfront Escape in the Heart of the Destination's Golden ZoneMarriott Cancun features a comprehensive range of amenities and services designed to cater to every guest's needs. Beginning with the Greatroom, guests are instantly welcomed into its energetic atmosphere, complemented by a modern and elegant design that is infused with local details and a mood that transitions seamlessly from day to night. From the welcome station to the buzzy signature bar, the space sets the tone of the trip for each guest with a relaxed and inviting environment. The resort features 450 newly redesigned guestrooms, including 124 premium ocean view rooms and 38 suites with balconies offering breathtaking vistas of the azure waters. For those seeking ultimate indulgence, the two Presidential Suites epitomize luxury, featuring a large balcony that overlooks Cancun's pristine beaches to the east and a beautiful terrace with views of the Nichupte Lagoon and its nuanced sunsets to the west. Each room showcases contemporary decor, well-appointed bathrooms, and daily replenished mini bars, ensuring a harmonious fusion of comfort and convenience throughout each guest's stay.

Marriott Cancun Boasts 13 Culinary Gems to Uncover & SavorGuests can embark on a culinary journey with 13 diverse dining options, including everything from vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine and innovative Japanese dishes to poolside pizzerias and refreshing ceviche served in a tropical oasis. The heart of the resort, the Greatroom Lobby Bar offers stunning ocean vistas and a sophisticated ambiance for socializing over creative cocktails. Indulge at HANA Polynesian Grill, starting with a tropical breakfast buffet and culminating in dinner on an enchanting terrace featuring Polynesian-inspired delicacies. For a taste of Tulum-inspired cuisine, Sacbé Beach Shack delivers flavorful dishes, perfect for enjoying under the sun or in the shade. The resort's burgers and shakes spot serves up a taste of nostalgia with its classic counter seating and family-friendly atmosphere, while Alice's Tamale Ritual makes its rounds throughout the resort daily with its mobile food cart, bringing guests together for a delicious and enlightening culinary experience. Both unique culinary offerings are inspired by Marriott's hospitality roots and will serve as staples for future Marriott Hotels All-Inclusive properties.

Resort Guests of All Ages Can Unlock a World of Fun & Fulfilling ExperiencesMarriott Cancun offers a variety of daily and nightly activities for every generation of traveler designed to encourage them to explore their passions, enrich themselves in the destination, and make lasting memories with loved ones. Guests can participate in cooking classes, enjoy dynamic poolside entertainment and explore the locale through cultural experiences.

Guests of all ages can dive into adventure at the expansive water park, featuring thrilling water slides, a relaxing lazy river, and multiple pools, including exclusive adults-only areas. Additionally, fitness enthusiasts who wish to maintain their workout routines while traveling can take advantage of the state-of-the-art fitness center. At the resort's sports bar, guests can take the stage during lively karaoke nights as well as enjoy captivating nighttime performances and awe-inspiring spectacles. The excitement continues in the venue's arcade area, where kids and adults alike can immerse themselves in endless fun. The Workshop, which will open in Fall 2024, will connect guests to the local culture and foster lasting memories with art lessons, craft workshops, and more, providing a meaningful gift to take home.

Included within the all-inclusive resort offering is the expansive 5,000-square-foot indoor/outdoor CAMP Club by Marriott, which keeps kids engaged all day long with a variety of action-packed and creative activity zones, including slime making in the Schmutz "slime" zone, Latin dance lessons, and Kukulkan Puppet crafting, which is a special craft experience unique to the destination. Other zones include a splatter paint cabin, a sound cabin equipped with instruments for kids to make their own music, CAMPitheater, where kids can take center stage and perform, sing, dance for family, friends, and other guests, and Turf Field zone with areas for ziplining, wall-climbing, and more.

Unrivaled Event and Meeting Spaces are Poised to Make Every Occasion ShineThe resort is set to become the premier destination for events and meetings, with nearly 24,813 square feet of renovated event space. The resort's four event rooms, including one that can accommodate up to 800 people, as well as its 12 breakout rooms are ideal for any occasion. Expert event planners are on-site to ensure that every event - whether that be an intimate beachside wedding, a family reunion, or company retreat - exceeds expectations.

Be Among the First to Enjoy Marriott Cancun's Wonderful Hospitality at an Unbeatable PriceTo celebrate the grand opening of Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort, the property is offering an exclusive 20% discount on all bookings made between July 30th and August 30th, 2024. This limited time offer invites guests to experience ultimate relaxation and adventure when visiting any time from July 30th, 2024, to January 11th, 2025. In addition to the discounted rates, guests will be treated to a $50 USD resort credit valid for indulgent spa treatments at our serene beach cabanas. For more information and to book your stay, visit here.

"We are absolutely thrilled to extend a warm welcome to our guests at our newly renovated resort. Our dedicated team of hosts has poured their hearts into this exciting project, and we can't wait to create unforgettable experiences for each and every guest who chooses Marriott Hotels for their next vacation in beautiful Cancun" shared Christopher Calabrese, Vice President and General Manager at Marriott Cancun, an All-Inclusive Resort.

As Marriott Hotels expands its all-inclusive portfolio, guests can look forward to captivating new resorts debuting in 2024 and 2025 in destinations including Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and Djerba, Tunisia. Marriott Hotels All-Inclusive concept is all about empowering guests to unlock new and familiar experiences, that will allow them to connect in deeply enriching ways and strengthen social bonds. From local artist experiences and expansive water features to elevated service moments and modern design with easy technology, Marriott Hotels' growing all-inclusive portfolio will set the new standard for All-Inclusive vacations. For additional information on Marriott Cancun and Marriott Hotels All-Inclusive Resorts, please visit here. To learn more about Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort visit here.

About Marriott Hotels® With nearly 600 hotels and resorts in over 65 countries and territories around the world, Marriott Hotels continues to elevate the art of hospitality – placing people first is the brand's living legacy – ensuring guests always feel deeply cared for throughout their stay. Marriott Hotels raises the bar by consistently delivering heartfelt service, with modern, comfortable spaces, and by providing experiences elevated beyond the everyday. As global travelers needs and expectations evolve, so does Marriott Hotels, leading the industry with innovations including the Greatroom lobby and Mobile Guest Services that embrace style, design, and technology. For more information, please visit www.marriotthotels.com, and stay connected on Facebook, and @marriotthotels on Instagram. Marriott Hotels 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 marriottbonvoy.com.

About All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy® Encompassing nine leading brands, All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy is Marriott International's all-inclusive platform, offering unparalleled amenities, diverse culinary options, and endless experiences for all ages, and tailored for each brand. The growing portfolio of more than 30 immersive getaways in spectacular destinations include The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa in Costa Rica and Sanctuary Cap Cana, a Luxury Collection All-inclusive Resort. All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy 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 marriottbonvoy.com.

^{1 Family Travel Association (FTA) "2023 U.S. Family Travel Survey"} 

SOURCE Marriott International, Inc.

SACRAMENTO, Calif., July 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The California Hotel & Lodging Association (CHLA) today released its fourth edition of California Hotel Law, a comprehensive legal guide essential for navigating the complexities of California's lodging sector. This latest edition addresses the rapidly evolving legal landscape with easy-to-understand language on current statutes, regulations and judicial decisions that impact hotel operations.

Crafted over three years by CHLA's Member Legal Advisor, Jim Abrams, the interactive guide features 18 detailed chapters on critical legal issues such as hotel operations, employment law, liability and risk management. New in this edition are updates on recent legal changes and emerging trends in the hospitality sector.

"California Hotel Law puts crucial legal information at the fingertips of hoteliers," Abrams said. "It's designed to be a practical resource, helping them tackle everyday legal challenges efficiently and accurately."

California Hotel Law is available exclusively to CHLA members via the association's website. Members can access the guide at www.calodging.com/benefits. The guide will be updated every two years and as needed to address new legal and regulatory developments. Abrams also is available to provide personalized guidance to members.

"The value of California Hotel Law is paramount to our members," said Lynn S. Mohrfeld, President & CEO of CHLA. "This resource, combined with Jim's expertise, equips our industry to navigate California's dynamic legal environment with confidence."

About California Hotel & Lodging Association 
The California Hotel & Lodging Association is the leading resource and advocate for California's more than 6,000 hotels, motels, and boutique inns, employing over 235,000 workers. Established in 1893, CHLA is the largest state lodging industry association in the nation and a partner with the American Hotel & Lodging Association. For more information, visit www.calodging.com.

Contact:Haley Murphy[email protected]707-815-8909

SOURCE California Hotel & Lodging Association

Liberio is an experienced technology leader in the restaurant industry and most recently served as executive vice president and global chief information officer for Restaurant Brands International. Prior to RBI, he worked at the McDonald's Corporation for more than 16 years, serving in various leadership roles before becoming senior vice president and global chief information officer, where he led the development and deployment of their digital transformation.

"We couldn't be more pleased to welcome Frank to the Brinker Board of Directors and know his wisdom and leadership maturity will bring valuable insights as we support Brinker's growth strategies with a focus on the Guest experience," said Joe DePinto, Brinker's Chairman of the Board. "He is both deeply knowledgeable and relatable, and the years of wisdom gained from his exemplary career will be a true asset to the board."

About Brinker InternationalBrinker International, Inc. is one of the world's leading casual dining restaurant companies and home of Chili's^® Grill & Bar, Maggiano's Little Italy^®, and the It's Just Wings^® virtual brand. Founded in 1975 in Dallas, Texas, we've ventured far from home, but stayed true to our roots. Brinker owns, operates or franchises nearly 1,600 restaurants in the United States and 27 other countries and two U.S. territories. Our passion is making everyone feel special, and we hope you feel that passion each time you visit one of our restaurants or invite us into your home through takeout or delivery. Learn more about Brinker and its brands at brinker.com. 

SOURCE Brinker International Payroll Company, L.P.

For a summary of second quarter highlights, please visit: https://news.marriott.com/static-assets/component-resources/newscenter/earnings/2024/20240731-q2-2024-infographic.pdf.

BETHESDA, Md., July 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) today reported second quarter 2024 results.

Anthony Capuano, President and Chief Executive Officer, said, "Marriott reported strong second quarter results, with net rooms up 6 percent year over year and worldwide RevPAR¹ growth of nearly 5 percent, as consumers continued to prioritize travel. International RevPAR increased more than 7 percent, with Asia Pacific excluding China leading the way, posting an impressive 13 percent RevPAR increase from the year-ago quarter. 

"In the U.S. & Canada, second quarter RevPAR grew nearly 4 percent, with all customer segments growing versus the prior year quarter. Group RevPAR rose nearly 10 percent year over year, with both rate and occupancy increasing in the mid-single digits.

"With a membership base of over 210 million members and growing, Marriott Bonvoy is a key competitive advantage. We remain focused on enhancing the loyalty program's benefits and finding new ways to engage with our members both on and off property. In June, we announced a collaboration with Starbucks. The number of members who have linked their accounts is already well exceeding our expectations.  

"Owner preference for our brands remains strong. We signed nearly 31,000 rooms in the quarter, 75 percent of which were in international markets. Our momentum around conversions continued, accounting for 37 percent of room additions in the quarter. We continue to expand our industry leading global portfolio, and our expectation for net rooms growth remains at 5.5 to 6 percent for full year 2024. 

"With our solid financial results and strong cash generation, we have already returned $2.8 billion to shareholders year-to-date through July 29.  We expect to return approximately $4.3 billion to our shareholders in 2024 through share repurchases and dividends."

Second Quarter 2024 ResultsBase management and franchise fees totaled $1,148 million in the 2024 second quarter, a 9 percent increase compared to base management and franchise fees of $1,057 million in the year-ago quarter.  The increase is primarily attributable to RevPAR increases and unit growth. Non-RevPAR-related franchise fees in the 2024 second quarter totaled $234 million, compared to $206 million in the year-ago quarter. The increase was largely driven by a 10 percent increase in co-branded credit card fees, as well as $13 million of higher residential branding fees.

Incentive management fees totaled $195 million in the 2024 second quarter, compared to $193 million in the 2023 second quarter, and were impacted by weaker results in Greater China, as well as unfavorable foreign exchange. Managed hotels in international markets contributed more than 60 percent of the incentive fees earned in the quarter.

Owned, leased, and other revenue, net of direct expenses, totaled $99 million in the 2024 second quarter, compared to $103 million in the year-ago quarter. 

General, administrative, and other expenses for the 2024 second quarter totaled $248 million, compared to $240 million in the year-ago quarter. 

Interest expense, net, totaled $164 million in the 2024 second quarter, compared to $141 million in the year-ago quarter. The increase was largely due to higher interest expense associated with higher debt balances.

Marriott's reported operating income totaled $1,195 million in the 2024 second quarter, compared to 2023 second quarter reported operating income of $1,096 million. Reported net income totaled $772 million in the 2024 second quarter, compared to 2023 second quarter reported net income of $726 million. Reported diluted earnings per share (EPS) totaled $2.69 in the quarter, compared to reported diluted EPS of $2.38 in the year-ago quarter.

Adjusted operating income in the 2024 second quarter totaled $1,120 million, compared to 2023 second quarter adjusted operating income of $1,043 million. Second quarter 2024 adjusted net income totaled $716 million, compared to 2023 second quarter adjusted net income of $690 million. Adjusted diluted EPS in the 2024 second quarter totaled $2.50, compared to adjusted diluted EPS of $2.26 in the year-ago quarter. 

Adjusted results excluded cost reimbursement revenue, reimbursed expenses and merger-related charges and other expenses. See page A-3 and page A-11 of the press release schedules for the calculation of adjusted results and the manner in which the adjusted measures are determined in this press release.

Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) totaled $1,324 million in the 2024 second quarter, compared to second quarter 2023 adjusted EBITDA of $1,219 million. See page A-11 of the press release schedules for the adjusted EBITDA calculation.

Selected Performance InformationThe company added roughly 15,500 net rooms during the quarter.

At the end of the quarter, Marriott's global system totaled nearly 9,000 properties, with roughly 1,659,000 rooms.

At the end of the quarter, the company's worldwide development pipeline totaled 3,509 properties with more than 559,000 rooms, including 208 properties with roughly 33,000 rooms approved for development, but not yet subject to signed contracts. The quarter-end pipeline included 1,127 properties with over 209,000 rooms under construction. Fifty-seven percent of rooms in the quarter-end pipeline are in international markets.

In the 2024 second quarter, worldwide RevPAR increased 4.9 percent (a 4.0 percent increase using actual dollars) compared to the 2023 second quarter.  RevPAR in the U.S. & Canada increased 3.9 percent (a 3.9 percent increase using actual dollars), and RevPAR in international markets increased 7.4 percent (a 4.2 percent increase using actual dollars).

Balance Sheet & Common StockAt the end of the quarter, Marriott's total debt was $13.1 billion and cash and equivalents totaled $0.3 billion, compared to $11.9 billion in debt and $0.3 billion of cash and equivalents at year-end 2023.

Year to date through July 29, the company has repurchased 10.4 million shares for $2.5 billion.

Company OutlookThe company's updated outlook includes a narrowing of the RevPAR growth range for full year 2024, primarily as a result of a weaker operating environment in Greater China, as well as marginally softer expectations in the U.S. & Canada.

Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) will conduct its quarterly earnings review for the investment community and news media on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time (ET).  The conference call will be webcast simultaneously via Marriott's investor relations website at http://www.marriott.com/investor, click on "Events & Presentations" and click on the quarterly conference call link.  A replay will be available at that same website until July 31, 2025.

The telephone dial-in number for the conference call is US Toll Free: 800-274-8461, or Global: +1 203-518-9843. The conference ID is MAR2Q24.  A telephone replay of the conference call will be available from 1:00 p.m. ET, Wednesday, July 31, 2024, until 8:00 p.m. ET, Wednesday, August 7, 2024.  To access the replay, call US Toll Free: 800-695-1564 or Global: +1 402-530-9025.

Note on forward-looking statements:  All statements in this press release and the accompanying schedules are made as of July 31, 2024. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. This press release and the accompanying schedules contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of federal securities laws, including statements related to our RevPAR, rooms growth and other financial metric estimates, outlook and assumptions; shareholder returns; our Marriott Bonvoy program; our development pipeline; owner preference for our brands; and similar statements concerning anticipated future events and expectations that are not historical facts. We caution you that these statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to numerous evolving risks and uncertainties that we may not be able to accurately predict or assess, including the risk factors that we describe in our Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K or Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Any of these factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations we express or imply in this press release.

Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 9,000 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 141 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.  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 SEC, and any references to the websites are intended to be inactive textual references only.

¹All occupancy, Average Daily Rate (ADR) and Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) statistics and estimates are systemwide constant dollar. Unless otherwise stated, all changes refer to year-over-year changes for the comparable period. Occupancy, ADR and RevPAR comparisons between 2024 and 2023 reflect properties that are comparable in both years. 

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