Bethesda, Maryland-based Marriott International, Inc. has teamed up with Atlanta-based Carter Brothers, one of the largest minority-owned electronic security and fire alarm firms in the country.  Edwards Service, a division of the eight-year old firm owned by John Carter and former NFL Minnesota Vikings wide receiver, Cris Carter, will install ADA-compliant alarm systems in Marriott-branded hotels in Southern California.  The deal is worth an estimated $1.5 million.

          The ADA-compliant systems feature notification appliances for the hearing impaired, faster incident responses and carbon monoxide detectors. Carter Brothers, through its Edwards Service Division, operates California offices in San Francisco and Los Angeles as well as eight other offices nationwide. Marriott has previously sought Carter Brothers' expertise for projects at properties such as the Atlanta Marriott Marquis in Atlanta, Georgia.

          "We're excited about our partnership with the Carter Brothers," said Bill Hartwig, vice president, supplier relations, Marriott International, Inc. in a public press release.  "They are a great example of how a growing company with a niche service can work with a corporation as large as ours. We're looking forward to building a lasting relationship."

          As a part of Marriott's diversity initiatives, the company set a goal to spend 15% with minority, women, and LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) suppliers by 2009. Last year, Marriott spent more than $450 million.

          Carter Brothers was formed in 2001 and is a full-service provider of electronic security, fire, life safety products, and project management services. According to its website, Carter Brothers has nearly 300 employees.