Client Success Story
Marriott St. Louis Grand:
A Sustainability Trailblazer
Positioning itself at the forefront of sustainability within the hotel industry, the Marriott St. Louis Grand Hotel has partnered with Fill it Forward, revolutionizing its approach to single-use plastics reduction.
Since the launch of the program in July 2023, every room at the hotel has proudly offered reusable Cupanion Bottles for purchase, reinforcing a commitment to eco-conscious practices.
This initiative has fostered a sense of community, encouraging active participation from guests and staff in the shared mission of combating single-use plastic waste. It underscores the hotel’s dedication to being a positive force for the planet, decreasing its environmental impact in the St. Louis community.
“Whether through our sustainability endeavors or collaborations with organizations like Fill it Forward, each step we take creates a positive impact on humanity. Our commitment is not just to make a difference but to make a Grand one wherever we do business!”
Theona Simbrat,
General Manager
Quantifying Impact for a Greener Future
By reducing the single-use plastic bottle consumption throughout the hotel, the St. Louis Grand is making a positive impact. Using the Fill it Forward app, individuals can track their personal footprint with each reuse. Every scan shows the impact of 4 environmental metrics: ocean pollution prevented, CO2 emissions saved, waste diverted from landfills, and power saved.
Theona Simbrat, General Manager, emphasizes, “Whether it’s through our sustainability endeavors or collaborations with organizations like Fill it Forward, each step we take creates a positive impact on humanity. Our commitment is not just to make a difference but to make a Grand one wherever we do business!”
Over the past few months, there has been a decrease in single-use plastic waste generated at the hotel, propelling it towards a more sustainable future.
Engaging Staff and Guests
Marriott St. Louis Grand has implemented multiple engagement strategies across the property to promote the program. Informative videos and Cupanion Bottles are available in guest rooms, with strategically placed signage in the lobby and conveniently located refill stations throughout the hotel to ensure ample access to actively participate.
Internal associates, SSEs, and event managers have undergone training about how to promote sustainable options, with this initiative becoming of particular interest with group bookings, weddings, and event sales. This comprehensive approach to sustainability amplifies the guest experience, making it clear how each individual and group can contribute to making a positive impact.
Growing Customer Feedback and Loyalty
Guests have applauded the hotel’s sustainability commitment, and this positive feedback improves guest loyalty and satisfaction.
The Marriott St. Louis Grand Hotel has become synonymous with responsible tourism practices. Recently individuals shared feedback on the hotel’s Instagram and LinkedIn profiles, which serve as a showcase for customer testimonials and updates on the sustainability initiative.
Celebrated as a Changemaker Award Winner
In 2023, the Marriott St. Louis Grand was honored with the Changemaker Award, recognizing it as a Sustainability Trailblazer. This accolade acknowledges leaders demonstrating unparalleled dedication to waste reduction. The hotel has left an indelible mark on the community through innovative solutions and technology implementation, spearheading a reduction in overall waste generation and landfill contributions.
Media Recognition Amplifies Impact
The hotel’s sustainability journey has garnered attention from renowned news outlets, including Fox 2 St. Louis, Fox 2 NOW, Patch, St Louis Post Dispatch, Global Kid Media, PR.com, and Ground News. This widespread media coverage not only celebrates the initiative but also serves as inspiration for others to join the movement towards a greener, more sustainable future.
The Marriott St. Louis Grand Hotel continues to pave the way, proving that sustainability and luxury can coexist harmoniously, setting an industry standard for responsible hospitality.
