Mariott Replaces 628,000 Beds

Hotel company Marriott International Inc. plans to replace 628,000 beds by the end of the year to add more pillows, softer sheets and better mattresses.

The hotel operator said Tuesday the project will cost $190 million and use 30 million yards of fabric. The beds will be changed at about 2,400 hotels worldwide operating under eight different Marriott brand names.

The new linens will include 300-thread-count sheets, down comforters to replace traditional bedspreads and more pillows. The bedding will be thicker and the duvets more stylish.

Marriott said it surveyed 1,000 guests about the change, and most said they were looking for more stylish and comfortable bedding in their rooms.

Marriott's move comes as hotel chains try to one-up each other with plush sheets, comfy mattresses and big pillows in an effort to give guests a taste of luxury hotels for affordable prices.

Last year, the mid-priced chain Hampton Inn invested $80 million in new bedding. Radisson Hotels is replacing 90,000 beds at its properties.

Westin Hotels and Resorts started the rush in 1999 with the "Heavenly Bed," bedding meant to move away from the institutional feel of some rooms and give guests more luxurious accommodations.

Customers soon contacted Westin about ordering the beds for their own homes, prompting the company to strike a deal with manufacturers. In 2003, the company sold $4.9 million of "Heavenly" comforters, sheets and pillows.