Page 14 - The New Gold Standard

Foreword
offer the resources necessary for the Ritz-Carlton to expand in-
ternationally, while at the same time allowing the brand the in-
dependence to grow its legacy to the point where it is today: the
world’s most recognized and acclaimed luxury name. I am ex-
tremely grateful to Bill Marriott and his leadership team for al-
lowing Ritz-Carlton to experience dramatic growth, achieve
outstanding financial results, and still retain its unique identity.
As you read The New Gold Standard, I hope you will gain a
clear understanding of what a privilege it is for our Ladies and
Gentlemen at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company to provide
service as memorable as the beauty of our surroundings. They
truly understand the amenity that matters most to our guests is
not a fancy chocolate on the pillow but a dedication to service
that never wavers. Each of them appreciates that if the service he
or she offers does not surpass the expectations of our guests, then
all the splendor of the hotel becomes far less meaningful.
As for me, I want to thank Marcelle, my unsung hero and
wife of 35 years, for taking this incredible journey with me.
When people ask me about my job, I like to tell them, “I have
absolutely the best job in the world and am living the dream of
my vocation being my vacation.’”

SIMON F. COOPER
President, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company

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