10-KPeriod: FY2010

MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL INC /MD/ Annual Report, Year Ended Jan 1, 2010

Filed February 12, 2010For Securities:MAR

Summary

Marriott International, Inc. (MAR) filed its 2010 Form 10-K detailing its performance and financial condition for the fiscal year ended January 1, 2010. The company, a major operator and franchisor of hotels and lodging facilities, faced significant headwinds in 2009 due to the global economic downturn, which led to decreased lodging demand, particularly in the luxury segment. This resulted in an overall decline in revenues and a reported net loss for the year. Despite the challenging economic environment, Marriott continued to focus on cost management and operational efficiency across its five business segments: North American Full-Service Lodging, North American Limited-Service Lodging, International Lodging, Luxury Lodging, and Timeshare. The company also made significant impairment charges related to its Timeshare segment, reflecting the impact of market conditions on that business. From an investor's perspective, the report highlights Marriott's resilience through its diversified brand portfolio and its management and franchising-heavy business model, which provides a degree of stability. The company's strong Marriott Rewards loyalty program remains a key asset for driving repeat business. However, investors should note the substantial impairment charges taken in the Timeshare segment, indicating specific challenges within that part of the business. The report also details the company's liquidity position, debt levels, and capital allocation strategies, including ongoing development projects and share repurchase authorizations, all within the context of a weakened global economy.

Financial Statements
Beta
Revenue$11.69B
Operating Expenses$11.00B
Operating Income$695.00M
Interest Expense$180.00M
Net Income$458.00M
EPS (Basic)$1.26
EPS (Diluted)$1.21
Shares Outstanding (Basic)362.80M
Shares Outstanding (Diluted)378.30M

Key Highlights

  • 1Marriott International reported a net loss for the fiscal year 2009 due to the global economic downturn impacting lodging demand across most segments, particularly luxury.
  • 2The company experienced significant revenue declines in 2009 compared to 2008, driven by lower cost reimbursements, Timeshare sales and services, and incentive management fees.
  • 3Marriott recorded substantial Timeshare strategy-impairment charges totaling $752 million ($502 million after-tax) in 2009, reflecting market conditions and adjustments to business strategy.
  • 4RevPAR (Revenue Per Available Room) for comparable company-operated North American properties decreased significantly in 2009, reflecting the weak demand environment.
  • 5Despite the challenging year, Marriott continued to add properties to its portfolio, with 254 new properties and 37,714 rooms added in 2009.
  • 6The company's financial flexibility was supported by its $2.4 billion credit facility, which remained adequate to meet liquidity needs, though credit ratings were reduced.
  • 7Marriott emphasized cost control measures and operational efficiencies throughout its segments to mitigate the impact of lower demand on profit margins.

Frequently Asked Questions

In fiscal year 2009, Marriott International reported a net loss of $346 million, a significant decrease from the net income of $362 million in 2008. This was largely attributed to the global economic downturn, which reduced lodging demand, and substantial impairment charges taken in the Timeshare segment. Revenues also decreased by 15% to $10,908 million.

The economic downturn affected all segments, but the Luxury Lodging segment experienced particularly weak demand. RevPAR (Revenue Per Available Room) declined across most comparable properties. The Timeshare segment was significantly impacted, leading to substantial impairment charges as Marriott adjusted its business strategy and reduced development spending.

Marriott focused on rigorous cost control measures, operational efficiencies, and driving revenue through sales promotions and leveraging its Marriott Rewards loyalty program. The company also continued its strategy of expanding its management and franchise portfolio while minimizing capital investment, which provides a more stable earnings profile.

The most significant charges were the Timeshare strategy impairment charges totaling $752 million ($502 million after-tax), which included inventory, property and equipment, and joint venture impairments. Additionally, the company incurred restructuring costs of $51 million related to workforce reductions, facility exits, and development cancellations.