The concierge category has matured over the past ten years, such that firms are choosing different ways to offer and differentiate their services. One such example is Steve Sims and his team at Bluefish Concierge, based in Florida. A former banker from Geneva, he decided to offer what he wanted for himself – a lifestyle “enabler.”

$5,000 a Year Partner Program

What does this mean? Their most successful program is the Partner program – clients spend $5,000 a year to get preferred access to the Bluefish calendar, as well as to a 24/7 travel concierge. The events on the calendar are the real value in this program. They represent a mix of unique or over-the-top experiences for thrill-seekers, luxury afficianados, gourmands and anyone else wanting bragging rights about their latest trip. Upcoming events include:

• a five day trip to Bangkok to cook and eat with eight chefs with Michelin 3 star ratings. About $95,000 per couple.
• four days, three nights at Keswick Hall, Monticello, playing golf with PGA Tour pros Scott Verplank and James Driscoll. Starting at $10,000 per couple.
• three nights in Moscow, and while you are there, go up in a MiG-25. Call for pricing!

Bluefish has over 5000 clients that have signed on for this Partner program. From what we have learned it looks like a good option for those people that crave these lifestyle experiences, and want all the hassle of organizing them taken care of. The program also seems to make sense for companies or groups that do a lot of business and client entertaining – assuming your clients don’t hurl when in the MiG-25.

Expanding to Los Angeles and Japan

Bluefish is also adding more benefits to the program, such as more typical automatic room upgrades and VIP treatment at certain venues, resorts and clubs. The business is expanding, with offices in Los Angeles and Japan coming this year. Sims will not pick up your dry cleaning (other concierge services will), and instead wants his clients to rely on him to deliver memorable travel experiences. If you are a Bluefish client, email us about your experiences at tips@heliumreport.com.

All images courtesy of www.bluefish.com