Marriott planning rental company to rival Airbnb

Marriott International Inc. is reportedly planning to start a home-rental business similar to Airbnb, an aim at rivaling the growing in popularity business where individuals can rent their homes to travelers.

The international hotel chain could unveil plans for the first phase as early as next month, people familiar with the matter told the Wall Street Journal.

»RELATED: Need to return an Amazon package? Soon you’ll be able to return it at area Kohl’s stores

The program in the United States will follow behind a test in Europe, the people said.

Marriott owns several major brands including Sheraton, W Hotels, Ritz-Carlton, Towneplace Suites, Springhill Suites, Renaissance, Fairfield Inn and Suites and several others. The company is known for its loyalty program, which would carry over to the new home rental company, according to the Wall Street Journal.

»PHOTOS: Luxury Fairborn home has 5-car garage

Airbnb has more than 5 million rental units worldwide and is popular among luxury travelers and large families.

The Dayton-area has more than 100 homes listed on Airbnb.

FIVE FAST READS

• Owner of Kay Jewelers, Jared plans more than 150 closures

• Payless to begin laying off last of its employees at giant area warehouse

• Grocers competing for customers, cost savings with ‘green’ initiatives

• Local woman among thousands reporting scams by fake debt collectors

PHOTOS: Local, historic octagon-shaped house on market for first time in 35 years

About the Author