SPG announced on Flyertalk today their category adjustments for 2016 which will go into effect on March 1, 2016. All in all, 282 properties will be changing categories.

While 114 hotels are moving down in category, 168 are moving up including the W Washington D.C., the Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa, and the W Hollywood to name a few.

From their announcement:

Our annual category changes will go into effect on March 1, 2016. 

Just over 20% of hotels are changing category; of these, 12% are moving up and 8% are moving down including some favorites such as The St. Regis Bangkok, Thailand & Le Meridien Bora Bora.  

We’re not adding new categories or changing category pricing at this time. 

Here’s a look at the preliminary list to help you maximize your Starpoints. Please review the changes to decide if you’d like to redeem your Starpoints prior to – or after – the changes take place on March 1, 2016. Also in March, select Design Hotels will be available for redemption – look for more to come on that.  

Please note that Category adjustments are always subject to change. While we make every attempt to provide you the latest, most accurate information, adjustments may be made before or after the category change date, March 1, 2016.

Again, you can view the list here.

If you’re looking for a way to earn even more Starpoints, you may want to consider the Starwood credit cards, Starwood Preferred Guest Credit Card from American Express and the Starwood Preferred Guest Business Credit Card from American Express.

Bottom Line

While this change goes into place on March 1, 2016, you are able to book through then at the lower rates. So if you have any upcoming plans for this summer or even later in the year, you can book now and lock in the lower rates if the hotel will be increasing in category.

However if the hotel is going down in a category, you’ll want to wait until once the change occurs in order to book at the lower redemption.