Wine Concierge Idea

Describe your idea

My concept is to suggest a Wine Concierge for our  store.  This would be a full time position.  With my experience and education (Wine & Spirit Education Trust ~ Intermediate & Advanced coursework) I am uniquely qualified for this job.  We would offer an array of services to customers such as the following (but not limited to):

Personal Wine Consulting / Wine Shopping
I would provide free private customer consultations.  During in store meetings with customers I would discuss current wine tastes and purchasing habits.  Based on this I would make wine recommendations.  I would offer customized tasting sheets for the recommended wines that include food pairing and serving suggestions.  I would direct the customer to products (wine, beer & liquor) available in our store.

Food and Wine Pairing Consulting
This allows me to help choose appropriate wines to accompany any meal whether it is something a customer is preparing at home, dining at a friend’s house or going to a byob restaurant.  I can make wine suggestions to enhance the experience of the meal.  I could also provide tasting notes for the wines purchased.

Event Wine Consulting
Nothing is more important than a special event, if one is planning an event, the Concierge (Me!) could assist with the spirit, beer and wine selection for that perfect and memorable event. 

Cellar Management
We can offer to help set up wine cellars & make recommendations based on the customers preferences.

Gift Consulting
Everyone always want to give a suitable gift.  After asking the appropriate questions, I can offer suggestions that fit the customer’s needs and budget.

Staff & Customer Education
 Offer mini-educational classes daily or weekly on a different region/varietal.  Pair the learning with tastings that go along with the lesson.  I could teach these classes at other Wegmans locations as well.

These are just some of the many ideas we could promote once we implement the Wine Concierge idea.

What are the benefits of your idea?

There are countless benefits of having a Wine Concierge.  Our customers will feel special because they are getting individual attention.  Based on this, I can develop a trusting relationship with customers.  This trusting relationship will help to promote high-end sales and also increase the volume of sales.  People often feel empowered when they learn new information so the classes would be beneficial in that way for the staff and customers.

Additional Comments

I would be happy to explain and expand on my idea to the owner.  Just let me know when!