Marriott CEO Sees Strong Travel Demand Despite Global Headwinds

Marriott CEO Reports Strong Travel Demand Despite Economic Uncertainty NEW YORK, June 2, 2025 — In an exclusive interview with CNBC, Marriott International CEO Anthony Capuano offered insights into the surprising resilience of the travel industry. Despite ongoing global trade tensions, Capuano stated that "travelers across income levels are prioritizing travel." This trend is particularly evident in the luxury sector, which has shown remarkably consistent and strong growth. Capuano further explained Marriott's strategic expansion into the midscale market, launching new builds to cater to the growing demand for more economical travel options. "Midscale continues to be a big growth platform for us," he noted. This two-pronged approach reflects a fundamental shift in post-pandemic consumer behavior, with a greater emphasis on experiences over material possessions. One analyst commented, "This is a significant indicator of a changing economic landscape, where experiences are increasingly valued over material goods." The CEO's remarks suggest a positive outlook for the travel industry, with consumers showing a sustained appetite for travel, regardless of economic factors. The interview also highlighted data from Marriott's credit card partners, revealing a pre-pandemic trend among younger demographics to prioritize travel and experiences. This trend, the CEO believes, has broadened across all demographics, signifying a potentially permanent shift in consumer behavior.