Hotel Guests Sue Marriott Over Los Angeles Fee

A group of hotel guests have filed a lawsuit against Marriott alleging that some of its properties in Los Angeles are charging an employee-protection fee, which they claim is a 'junk fee' that overcharges guests and enriches the hotel chain.

The surcharge could result in each hotel earning an extra $3.6 million annually, exceeding the amount required to comply with the relevant law.

The charges were a response to an ordinance mandating hotels to provide security devices for workers and higher wages for housekeepers, but the plaintiffs argue that this revenue enables Marriott to advertise lower initial costs and charge guests excessively.

This case highlights the issue of 'junk fees' and the importance of holding hotel chains accountable for additional charges.

Charges Seen as Enabling Marriott to Overcharge Guests

The plaintiffs argue that the employee-protection fee enables Marriott to advertise lower initial costs and charge guests excessively.

An example is the Los Angeles Airport Marriott, which typically averages around an occupancy rate above 80% and could make over $10,000 per night from guests by charging the fee.

The fee is nothing more than a 'junk fee' under the guise of 'worker protection,' directly benefiting Marriott at the expense of their guests.

This could potentially lead to guests becoming more aware of the potential for overcharging by hotel chains.

Junk Fees Raising Consumer Awareness

Junk fees are raising consumer awareness of additional charges on their bills.

Consumers are taking action to dispute these charges and are becoming more aware of the potential for overcharging by hotel chains.

The lawsuit against Marriott is just one example of consumers holding hotel chains accountable for additional fees.

As the issue of 'junk fees' becomes increasingly important for the travel and hospitality industry, it is important for guests to be aware of these charges and hold hotel chains accountable.

Effects on Travel and Hospitality Industry

The issue of 'junk fees' could potentially have a negative impact on the travel and hospitality industry.

If guests become increasingly aware of these charges, they may choose to stay at alternative accommodations or seek out hotels that are more transparent with their pricing.

This could lead to decreased revenue for hotel chains and a shift towards more transparent pricing models.

It is important for the industry to address this issue and work towards providing guests with a more transparent and fair pricing system.

Pop Culture Phenomena in Los Angeles

While this lawsuit does not directly relate to pop culture phenomena in Los Angeles, the city is known for its celebrity culture and entertainment industry.

From Hollywood updates to film reviews, Los Angeles is a hub for the entertainment industry and a popular destination for tourists.

As such, it is important for the city to maintain a positive reputation and provide fair and transparent pricing for guests.

This lawsuit highlights the need for the travel and hospitality industry to address issues such as 'junk fees' and work towards improving guest experiences.

Conclusion

The lawsuit against Marriott for allegedly charging an employee-protection fee highlights the issue of 'junk fees' in the travel and hospitality industry.

Guests are becoming increasingly aware of these charges and taking action to dispute them.

It is important for hotel chains to address this issue and work towards providing guests with a more transparent and fair pricing system.

As a hub for the entertainment industry, Los Angeles must maintain a positive reputation and provide fair pricing for guests to continue to attract tourists.

This case serves as a reminder for the industry to prioritize guest experience and address issues such as 'junk fees'.

References

www.wsj.com. (June 21, 2023). Hotel Guests Sue Marriott Over Los Angeles Fee. www.wsj.com.
CPI. (June 22, 2023). Marriott Faces New ‘Junk Fees’ Suit At Los Angeles Hotels. www.competitionpolicyinternational.com.

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