Skift Take

Marriott Bonvoy signed up the 200 millionth member as the loyalty program aims to retain its title as the world's largest – Hilton Honors is hot on its tail.

Marriott said Monday that the 200 millionth person had joined its loyalty program as the company aims to retain its title as having the world's largest hotel rewards program.

The company even identified the 200 millionth member: A gentleman with the first name of Nino, who signed up for Marriott Bonvoy at the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, according to a LinkedIn post.

The milestone came as Hilton has been signing up loyalty members at a faster pace than Marriott. Skift looked at a five-year pace and a one-year pace as of year-end and if trends continue, Hilton could overtake Marriott's program in size within roughly the next year.

To gain context, Skift caught up Monday with Peggy Roe, executive vice president and chief customer officer of Marriott.

On staying the largest

"My perspective is it'