When Marriott combined Marriott Rewards, Ritz-Carlton Rewards, and SPG back in August, they said a new redemption chart would take effect in 2019. However, it appears that’s no longer going to be the case, at least for now. Especially since Marriott Rewards Category 8 is delayed till March.
According to Gary Left, someone over at Marriott told him that Category 8 redemption rates won’t go into effect until March 2019. And, given the tumultuous program integration process, this delay doesn’t surprise me one bit. But, at least this delay is one that benefits us!
Old Versus New
Though eight categories are one less than the old program, Category 8 has a much higher redemption rate than the old Category 9. After all, Category 9 in the old program required 45,000 points per night. But now, Category 8’s standard redemption rate requires 85,000 points per night. And if you look at the yet-to-be-implemented peak pricing, it can go as high as 100,000 points per night! Even without the eighth category, though, the new program is still a devaluation. Category 7 still requires more points than the old 9, coming in at 60,000 points per night.
For former Starwood Preferred Guest members, though, the new award chart represents better value. Under SPG, a Category 7 award night costs a Marriott Rewards equivalent of 90,000 to 105,000 points per night!
Peak and Off-Peak Pricing
In case you’re wondering, Gary’s contact at Marriott says there’s more to come regarding peak and off-peak pricing. Apparently, implementation of this “feature” is up-in-the-air too. And, I gotta say, aside from the devaluation in the program, the peak and off-peak scheme concerns me the most. The reason for this is because off-peak or points break pricing was available under the old program. But at popular destinations, these discounted rates were never available. So, I have a sick feeling that popular properties will always fall under peak pricing.
Marriott Rewards Category 8 is Delayed Till March, Final Thoughts
As you know from my previous posts, I think the new Marriott Rewards is a really mixed bag. I loathe the massive devaluation Marriott handed to pre-merger Marriott Rewards members. And, the new Lifetime Elite program is a major slap in the face to me, especially since I was only a year or so away from qualifying under the old program. Suite Night Awards are also an area of frustration, though I was able to redeem one earlier this month. So, while we’re still getting a Category 8 in the future, it’s nice that we’ll get a three-month extension on lower rates at top-tier properties. Just remember to book your aspirational reservations prior to the March 2019 deadline!