Marriott International is to partner PDG Realty in the development of 50 Fairfield by Marriott hotels throughout Brazil.

The companies plan to build 50 such properties in the South American state - at sites yet to be announced - with each being built with a view to saving energy and minimising its environmental impact. Marriott and PDG will also make financial contributions for each hotel constructed to support rain forest preservation through the Amazonas Sustainable Foundation.

Arne Sorenson, president and chief operating officer of Marriott International said: "We are excited to partner with PDG Realty. In addition to their substantial land bank and access to quality sites, they bring together local hotel development and construction expertise. "Introducing Fairfield in Brazil couples our focus on expanding into new markets with our goal of building environmentally friendly hotels for our Brazilian guests."

Fairfield is Marriott's leading brand in the mid-price sector and the eighth brand in its portfolio to be developed outside the US. It already operates more than 625 properties throughout the US, Canada and Mexico.