Many budget-conscious travelers avoid pulling items from hotel minibars, as they are often conveniently stocked with snacks and refreshments that come at a high cost.
Marriott is now looking to revamp the tired minibar system with a new Millennial-targeted initiative it calls Build Your Own Mini Bar. Marriott locations on the West Coast are now offering this package, which provides guests with a $20 credit to the 24/7 lobby Market for each night of their stay.
With this credit, Marriott guests are able to stock up on a variety of light snacks and refreshments that are to their liking, including everything from beer and sodas to a range of midnight snacks. As well as sating a consumer's desire for tailored experiences, this program also encourages travelers to venture into the small grocery store that's located on-site at each hotel.
Customizable Minibar Packages
Marriott is Giving Guests More Choice on What's in Hotel Minibars
Trend Themes
1. Customized Hotel Experiences - By offering the 'Build Your Own Mini Bar' initiative, Marriott taps into the growing demand for tailor-made travel experiences.
2. Lobby Marketplaces - Marriott's 'Build Your Own Mini Bar' initiative encourages guests to shop at the lobby market for snacks and drinks, creating an opportunity for hotels to expand their retail offerings.
3. 24/7 Services - Marriott's 'Build Your Own Mini Bar' initiative supports the demand for 24/7 services, making it an opportunity for hotels to adapt to changing customer preferences by offering more flexibility in their service model.
Industry Implications
1. Hospitality Industry - Marriott's 'Build Your Own Mini Bar' initiative shows how hotels can differentiate themselves by offering customized amenities and services for their guests.
2. Food and Beverage Industry - Marriott's 'Build Your Own Mini Bar' initiative creates opportunities for hotels to collaborate with food and beverage companies to offer an array of snacks and drinks that cater to the diverse preferences of their guests.
3. Retail Industry - Marriott's 'Build Your Own Mini Bar' initiative drives customers to the on-site lobby market, presenting an opportunity for hotels to expand their retail offerings and partner with local vendors to offer unique products.