Guests at Sonder Witherspoon in Center City Philadelphia given less than 24 hours to vacate premises

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Guests have likely had a sleepless night at the Sonder in Center City Philadelphia after they were ordered to pack up and leave with less than 24 hours' notice.

It's all due to the sudden announcement that Marriott Bonvoy is no longer partnering with the apartment rental company.

Marriott sent an email notification to guests at Sonder properties saying Marriott's licensing agreement with Sonder Holdings is no longer in effect due to Sonder's default.

Guests at The Witherspoon on Juniper Street in Center City were told to move out by 9 a.m. Monday.

"Yesterday we heard we had to go out at nine today," said Maria Fernandez.

Sonder offers apartment-style accommodations and many guests come for extended stays of months or even years.

"I've been here for five months. I'm here because I'm working in Philly," said Mickey Silver. "Because of the electronic codes, we're scared we can't get back in the building. I'm lucky I have a friend who can help drive me out."

Sonder signed an agreement with Marriott in 2024. Now that the agreement is over, Sonder is no longer affiliated with Marriott Bonvoy.

"It's a terrible upheaval. As we know, Philadelphia is an expensive city to stay. All of the rates now are at least double what we paid," said another guest.

Maria Fernandez of Guatemala is staying with a friend who just had knee surgery. Fernandez is happy she was there to help her friend move, but is among the many who are stunned to be treated this way.

"She's post-surgery, and she had to be here for two months," said Fernandez.

"I think it's just inconceivable that a corporate entity could treat human beings that way," said Bonnie Strahs.

"I don't understand how that could happen, how they could fire all the staff in one day, tell everybody to move out by the morning. It seems crazy," said Dr. Mike Gaines.

Guests who have an upcoming reservation and booked through Marriott can expect Marriott to refund their deposit.

If you booked through a third party, Marriott is telling guests that they will need to contact that organization to pursue a refund.