Bill Fehrman: No More Excuses—Marriott Must Keep Its Promise
American Electric Power (AEP) just added David Marriott, Chairman of Marriott International, to its Board of Directors.
But before AEP entrusted Marriott with a position helping oversee one of the largest electric utilities in the United States, his own company failed to deliver on a major public commitment.
Marriott pledged to transition to 100 percent cage-free eggs globally by the end of 2025. That deadline has now passed, and Marriott failed to meet its goal. Hens continue to suffer in cages in the company's global egg supply chain.
Battery cages are so cruel that they have been banned in numerous states and countries. Hens confined in these systems spend their lives packed into wire cages with severely restricted movement.
When AEP announced Marriott's appointment, the company highlighted the importance of "consistency, execution and customer trust." Those principles should apply to the people AEP chooses to put on its board.
AEP should not ignore Marriott's record. The company should demand that David Marriott use his leadership position at Marriott International to address its failed cage-free commitment, or reconsider whether he belongs on AEP's Board of Directors.
Millions of animals are affected by corporate decisions like these. Sign the petition and tell AEP that board membership should come with accountability.
Mr. Fehrman,
I am writing because AEP recently elected David Marriott, Chairman of Marriott International, to its Board of Directors.
Marriott publicly committed to sourcing 100 percent cage-free eggs throughout its global operations by the end of 2025. That deadline has passed, and Marriott failed to meet its commitment. Hens continue to be confined in cages in the company's global egg supply chain.
Battery cages severely restrict hens' movement and have been banned in numerous states and countries. Marriott had years to prepare for its deadline, yet the company still failed to complete its promised transition.
When AEP announced David Marriott's appointment, it emphasized the importance of "consistency, execution and customer trust." AEP should apply those same standards to its directors.
Please call on David Marriott to use his leadership position at Marriott International to address the company's failed cage-free commitment and establish a credible path to completion. If he is unwilling to do so, AEP should reconsider whether he is an appropriate choice for its Board of Directors.
AEP should not lend its reputation to corporate leaders without expecting accountability for the commitments they oversee.
[Comment]
Sincerely,
[First Name] [Last Name]
