As part of its plan to enhance its footprint in the Chinese market, Marriott International has expanded the presence of its Tribute Portfolio brand of hotels in the Asian country as part of a long-term cooperation agreement with Delonix Group, a Chinese hospitality firm, which targets creating over 100 Tribute Portfolio hotels in Mainland China in the coming few years.

In a press statement, Marriott says that the two companies have signed eight agreements, including three announced in May 2024. It adds that leveraging a franchising model and in connection with Delonix group, the five new signings include Grand House hotel in Shaoxing, Grand New Century Hotel, Wenzhou, Wonderland Resort, Shangrao Sanqingshan, Grand House, Jiangyin and Grand New Century Resort, Changxing. These hotels are expected to open between 2025 and 2026.

The statement adds that the hotels featuring in two of the first three signings have also recently opened. These are Grand New Century Hotel, Hangzhou Boao and Wonderland Resort, Hangzhou Jiande, bringing characterful, independent hotel experiences with captivating designs and vibrant social scenes for guests.

“With Marriott International’s strong distribution network and system support, and proven management experience, along with the unique character of the Tribute Portfolio brand, two of the first signed hotels officially opened only seven months after the renovation while ensuring delivering on-brand experiences for guests. The swift launch of eight projects within the same year as the announcement of our cooperation with Delonix Group demonstrates the owners’ recognition of our market insights, brand value, and ability to deliver strong returns,” says Gavin Yu, Chief Development Officer, Greater China, Marriott International.

Gavin Yu

“The launch of our first signed hotels underscores our confidence in deepening cooperation, establishing a pioneering model in China that merges franchising and brand affiliation. In the future, we expect to jointly launch more high-quality hotel projects and build a new engine for growth in the premium hotel market,’’ says Donglin Li, President, Greater China, Delonix Group.

Marriott International and Delonix Group have set their ambitions high as the companies target taking Tribute Portfolio presence in China to over 100 locations.

The statement adds that the Grand New Century Hotel, Hangzhou Boao, is situated in the heart of Xiaoshan District, Hangzhou, surrounded by the picturesque Xiang Lake. Inspired by the fluidity of water, the hotel exudes an elegant yet energising atmosphere. The lobby features the art installation Impression of Xiang Lake. The hotel features 299 rooms and suites with fresh and elegantly understated interiors.

The other hotel that has opened, Wonderland Resort, Hangzhou Jiande, is situated in the Qililong Scenic Area, nestled between the Fuchun River and Xin’an River in Jiande City. The resort integrates the natural surroundings in its architectural design, creating a captivating aesthetic that fully immerses customers in the stunning landscape of the Fuchun River. The resort features 203 rooms and suites, including charming lakeside cabins and villa-style lodges, offering a relaxing retreat.

Marriott says that both hotels are now available for booking through Marriott International and Delonix Group’s owned channels, adding that members can enjoy benefits from Marriott Bonvoy and Betterwood, the companies’ respective loyalty programmes.