Boom Bust Season 3 Episode 130 Gary Leff On the Fight to Acquire Starwood

In season 3 episode 130 of Boom Bust, titled "Gary Leff On the Fight to Acquire Starwood," the focus is on the business and financial world's response to the Marriott-Starwood merger. The episode features a special guest, Gary Leff, co-founder of frequent flyer community, Milepoint, and blogger at View from the Wing.

The show begins with an overview of the events leading up to Marriott's acquisition of Starwood, including rival bids from Chinese company Anbang Insurance Group and Marriott CEO, Arne Sorenson's defense of the deal to shareholders. The host then introduces Gary Leff, who provides insight into the implications of the merger for frequent travelers and those in the hospitality industry.

Leff begins by outlining the benefits of the Marriott-Starwood merger, including expanded loyalty programs and increased efficiency for both companies. However, he also acknowledges the potential downsides, such as the consolidation of power within the hotel industry and the loss of competition. He notes that the merger could result in fewer options for consumers, particularly those in markets where Marriott and Starwood are dominant players.

The conversation then turns to the role of loyalty programs in the travel industry and their impact on consumer behavior. Leff provides examples of loyalty program members who are willing to go to great lengths to maintain their status, including taking unnecessary flights and staying at hotels they don't need to, simply to accrue points. He also discusses the importance of balancing loyalty program perks with profitability for hotel companies, particularly in light of the current economic climate.

The episode then shifts to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the travel industry and the Marriott-Starwood merger. Leff notes that the pandemic has had a significant impact on hotel occupancy rates and revenue, which in turn has affected loyalty program members' ability to earn and redeem points. He also discusses the challenges faced by the hospitality industry in adapting to changing consumer behavior, such as the shift towards remote work and the rise of domestic travel.

Overall, "Gary Leff On the Fight to Acquire Starwood" provides a comprehensive overview of the Marriott-Starwood merger and its implications for both consumers and the hospitality industry as a whole. With expert insights from Gary Leff, the episode offers a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the travel industry in an ever-changing landscape.