Competition is fierce and luxury hotels are doing everything in their power to lure the uber-rich. From maintaining pace with technology to offering farm-to-table cuisine, the hospitality industry has really upped the ante. So what’s next? Offering high-end clientele guest insider shopping privileges, of course.
More and more luxury hotels are partnering with upscale retailers to bring their top-tier guests a lavish shopping experience.
New York’s swanky Smyth Hotel, a luxury boutique hotel and a member of the Thompson Hotel portfolio, offers an insider’s shopping experience with Urban Zen, a philosophy of living by Donna Karan. Available to those who book the Urban Zen Package, guests will receive daily breakfast for two at the properties Little Park restaurant, a $250 gift card towards a purchase of $1,000 or more from Urban Zen as well as a private shopping experience and a full tour of the Urban Zen’s West Village studios.
The St. Regis in D.C. as well as Mexico offers exclusive shopping concierge services. At the St. Regis in Mexico City, guests can schedule an appointment with expert stylist, Marco Corral, who will compile style preferences and apparel sizes. Without having to leave their villa, guests will have the good fortune of having their closet fully stocked with a luxurious array of designer clothing. At the St. Regis D.C., guests can opt to have their closets stocked ahead of time with items from Neiman Marcus. Those who are interested in this ultra-luxe experience have to fill out a questionnaire their style preferences and arrive to a personalized wardrobe.
Last year, Conrad Hotels and Resorts debuted a seasonal guest package connecting guests to local cities and culture by offering an exclusive, luxury shopping excursion. For a two-night minimum stay, guests received a private chauffeured car in addition to a personal shopping escort, who guided shoppers through a one-of-a-kind selection of high-end retailers in the city of their stay.
Manhattan Upper East Side’s The Mark Hotel has partnered with luxury department store Bergdorf Goodman, where guests will have access to shop before and after hours with Bergdorf’s director of shopping. In addition, they will receive a $500 gift card as well as a facial in the store’s beauty department.
Creating exclusive experiences for prospective guests is essential for brands to stay afloat in today’s age. The focus on a unique, tailor-made experience really matters to the affluent traveler.
(Photo via The Mark Hotel)
