Reports that the Westin Xiamen dropped its Marriott flag without notice highlight a broader trend of international hotel brands retreating in China. Guests with bookings have yet to receive clarity. In recent months, three Hyatt hotels in Jiangsu left the brand, Nanchang’s Hualuxe shed its IHG label, and a Guangzhou Crowne Plaza rebranded under developer Poly. Most cases involve property owners struggling with debt and balking at rising management fees. Global chains like Marriott, Hilton, IHG, and Hyatt are shifting focus to midscale brands in China, aiming for faster returns and broader customer reach.