The JW Marriott brand was established in 1984, with the opening of the first hotel in Washington, D.C. It was named as a tribute to J.W. Marriott, the founder of Marriott Corporation. In 1989, Hong Kong was the destination for the overseas launch. Europe and the Middle East followed in 1993. As a general guide within the Marriott hierarchy, the brand competes in luxury as below Ritz-Carlton, but above the traditional Marriott and Renaissance.