VIPdesk Blog

In our most recent webinar, Increasing Loyalty to Your Customer Loyalty Program via Concierge Service, an attendee asked the difference between a Concierge and a travel agent.  The question specifically involved what services a Concierge could provide that a travel agent could not.

In order to answer this question, first we need to take a look at the similarities between a travel agent and a Concierge:

• VIPdesk Concierge are ARC-certified travel agents, who utilize our customized Global Distribution System (GDS) to assist customers with their travel needs
• Concierge can make airline, train and other transportation reservations, as well as hotel arrangements
• Concierge can book tours, sightseeing and other location-specific activities
• Concierge can also make dinner reservations, provide guidance as to shopping, and more location-specific information

As for the differences between Concierge and travel agents, one major difference is that Concierge are able to provide assistance in either specific markets or service categories, as well as attend to customer needs that a travel agent doesn’t normally specialize in.  For instance, if a customer is on holiday and has a question specific to their location—such as where they can find a grocery store, specific restaurant, or other special service, their Concierge can assist when their travel agent might not be able to.

Another difference between travel agents and Concierge is that the ability of a Concierge to assist their customers doesn’t end with travel arrangements: Concierge provide their customers with help completing their day-to-day tasks. Whether customers need assistance planning a child’s birthday party, purchasing a new flat screen tv, locating a groomer for their new dog and more, they can trust their Concierge to assist them.

Many brands that provide travel services provide Concierge service to their customers because this is a great way to keep the brand top-of-mind with customers as they go through their lives on a day-to-basis throughout the year, not just when they are traveling.

If you missed our recent webinar, Increasing Loyalty to Your Customer Loyalty Program via Concierge Service, you can download a recording of the webinar and the webinar slides from our website.