Marriott Named One the World's Most Ethical Companies

BETHESDA, Md., March 16, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- For the fourth time, Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) has been recognized by the Ethisphere Institute as one of the 2011 World's Most Ethical Companies.  Ethisphere said Marriott was selected for engaging in business practices and initiatives that are instrumental to the company's success, benefit the community, and raise the bar for ethical standards within the industry.  For the complete list of companies, visit www.ethisphere.com.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20090217/MARRIOTTINTLLOGO )

Ethical business practices are deeply embedded in the Marriott tradition and Spirit to Serve culture.  These ethical standards start with Marriott's top leadership, who reinforce the company's tradition of integrity, honesty, trust, and fairness. The company shares its philosophy with associates and all stakeholders through a variety of information channels, including Marriott's Business Conduct Guide, available on http://www.marriott.com/socialresponsibility.

"This significant recognition is a testament to Marriott's commitment to doing business with integrity," said Ed Ryan, executive vice president and general counsel for Marriott International.  "Upholding high ethical standards is important to our competitive advantage and to maintaining strong relationships with our shareholders, owners and guests and attracting and retaining the best associates in the business."

"As companies strive to maintain a competitive advantage, good ethics translate into better business, and better business means better bottom lines.  Marriott recognizes the important role that principled practices play in brand reputation, which ultimately is the most valuable asset for a corporation," said Alex Brigham, Executive Director of the Ethisphere Institute. "Each year, the competition gets more intense for the World's Most Ethical Companies and this year was no exception with a record number of organizations vying for this distinguished honor.  Ethisphere congratulates Marriott on being one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for 2011."

For a list of additional awards recognizing Marriott as a great place to work place to work, visit www.news.marriott.com/awards.  

The Methodology

A methodology committee of leading attorneys, professors, government officials and organization leaders, assisted Ethisphere in creating the scoring methodology for the World's Most Ethical Companies awards.  More information on the Ethisphere Institute, including ranking projects and membership, can be found at http://www.ethisphere.com.

Visit Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) for company information. For more information or reservations, please visit our web site at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.

SOURCE Marriott International, Inc.