MGM Resorts and Marriott Delay Launch of Collaborative ‘MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy’ Program

The highly anticipated ‘MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy’ program, a strategic licensing agreement between Marriott International and MGM Resorts International, has been postponed to 2024. Initially announced in July, the launch’s delay, as reported by the Las Vegas Review-Journal, is speculated to be related to a cyberattack on MGM Resorts in September, which resulted in substantial financial losses.

Despite the setback, both hotel giants remain committed to the collaboration. A joint statement released in October confirmed the postponement to the following year, although it did not specify the reasons behind the decision. The statement emphasized the goal of creating an exceptional experience for loyalty members, promising world-class offerings and benefits upon the debut of the ‘MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy’ by early 2024.

Various trade publications have linked the delay to the ransomware attack on MGM Resorts, which disrupted its systems for nine days. The impact of the cyberattack might have diverted resources needed to finalize the partnership agreement.

Once launched, the ‘MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy’ will allow bookings of select MGM resorts through Marriott’s digital platforms, including Marriott.com and the Marriott Bonvoy mobile app, as well as MGM’s channels like MGMRewards.com and the MGM Resorts mobile app. This move is particularly significant as it replaces a previous, though less extensive, arrangement with Hyatt Hotels Corp.

Marriott CEO Anthony Capuano had previously outlined plans to detail reciprocal benefits, point transfers, and account pairings between the Bonvoy and MGM Rewards platforms. However, both MGM and Marriott have not commented on the specific reasons for the delayed launch.

The partnership is expected to drive a significant influx of Marriott loyalty members to MGM properties nationwide, with Las Vegas properties poised to benefit substantially. Analysts like John DeCree of CBRE Equity Research have noted the potential impact on room nights and revenue, particularly from high-spending Marriott Bonvoy members.

Bill Hornbuckle, CEO of MGM Resorts, had earlier expressed optimism about the partnership, viewing it as an opportunity to attract high-end customers enthusiastic about Las Vegas. The delayed launch, while a setback, sets the stage for a strategic collaboration poised to enhance guest experiences and loyalty program benefits across both Marriott and MGM Resorts.