Marriott revamps its complimentary breakfasts to address new concerns

Detecting a shift in travelers’ breakfast preferences, Marriott is revamping the complimentary morning spreads offered at four of its moderately priced lodging chains.

The hotel giant learned from its research that consumers have a strong preference in the a.m. for quality ingredients; accommodation of their personal dietary preferences; and menus that reflect a commitment to sustainability and humane farming practices.  

In asking travelers about their preferences, Marriott also discovered that 72% of the public is comfortable again with serving themselves from a buffet, and that 75% of hotel guests prefer a hot buffet to a cold continental-style array.

The study found customization to be a particularly important consideration. About 67% of the respondents rated the availability of “special-diet items” as being extremely important.

Marriott will respond with the rollout next month of a new breakfast buffet to 3,000 hotels bearing the signage of Residence Inns, Fairfield by Marriott, SpringHill Suites and TownPlace Suites.

The options include a jalapeno cheddar baked souffle, crustless quiche and an array of hot breakfast sandwiches.

Guests can customize their meals through their choice of hot sauces, pumpkin seeds, coconut flakes, granola and other toppings.

The items are made with eggs from chickens reared outside of cages, as well as sustainably raised pork.

Marriott said it was revising its morning menu in part because of indications that travelers are taking to the road again after 18 months of a pandemic.