Travel Community Positioned to Help President-Elect Revitalize Economy
Strengthen America's Image Abroad
WASHINGTON, DC, NOvember 5, 2008. Roger Dow, President and CEO of the Travel Industry Association (TIA), today released the following statement on President-elect Barack Obama's historic victory:
"America's travel community congratulates President-elect Obama and pledges our support to the new Administration as it tackles two of the most daunting challenges facing America today: improving the U.S. economy and strengthening America's image in the international community. Travel is uniquely positioned to address both of these challenges.
"The American economy is dependent on travel. The industry employs one out of every eight U.S. workers, drives more than $700 billion in spending and is a major economic force in each of the 50 states. The small- and medium-sized businesses that make up more than 90 percent of America's travel community can trigger the kind of bottom-up economic growth and job creation that will put this economy back on track.
"Travel is also uniquely capable of helping America win hearts and minds around the world. The international business people, students and tourists who visit the United States each day are America's most effective diplomats. Those who have visited the United States are 74 percent more likely to have a favorable opinion of America and its policies than those who have not. Nine in ten travelers who visit the United States tell their friends and neighbors about their experience.
"TIA has a positive agenda for change that includes modernizing America's infrastructure and travel processes, creating jobs and improving the nation's energy security. We look forward to working closely with President-elect Obama to achieve these goals and build a stronger America."
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is a global leading lodging company based in Bethesda,Maryland, USA, with more than 4,200 properties in 80 countries and territories. Marriott International reported revenues of nearly $14 billion in fiscal year 2014. The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 19 brands, including: The Ritz-Carlton®, BVlgari®, EDITION®, JW Marriott®, Autograph Collection® Hotels, Renaissance® Hotels, Marriott Hotels®, Delta Hotels and Resorts®, Marriott Executive Apartments®, Marriott Vacation Club®, Gaylord Hotels®, AC Hotels by Marriott®, Courtyard®, Residence Inn®, SpringHill Suites®, Fairfield Inn & Suites®, TownePlace Suites®, Protea Hotels® and MoxyHotels®. Marriott has been consistently recognized as a top employer and for its superior business ethics. The company also manages the award-winning guest loyalty program, Marriott Rewards® and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® program, which together surpass 50 million members. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at 
