You know, as a host, that providing a top-tier experience to your guests is critical to the success of your business. A creative yet practical touch to your listing is offering the opportunity to add Airbnb grocery delivery services to the table. Whether you’re aiming to attract a busy family who doesn’t want to deal with stocking the cupboards on arrival or simply guests who want a little taste of luxury, we’ll discuss how you can turn an Airbnb grocery delivery service into a profitable upsell as part of your concierge service.
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Why offer a grocery delivery service?
Why? Because now more than ever, travelers are looking for an experience. With more than 8 million listings on Airbnb alone, every detail matters when sticking out from the crowd. For example, imagine you’ve just gotten off a 10-hour flight. You’re starving. The last thing you want to do is deal with finding a grocery store and going shopping. When you arrive at your rental, and the kitchen is full of requested groceries, your stay is already starting out with an A+. Additionally, it’s a great option for large groups who are staying together.
How to offer a grocery delivery
There are a few different ways to make an Airbnb grocery delivery service happen. Let’s dissect them below:
1. Concierge services
A concierge service is yet another great way to turn your listing into a full experience, not just a place to sleep. Here, you can work for an additional fee to cover the time, cost, and effort of providing groceries while earning an additional profit. Be sure to ask guests for a specific grocery list beforehand, including any allergies, so that everything is already taken care of by the time they arrive.
2. Partner with local grocery delivery services
If you don’t want yourself or your property manager having to do this, team up with a third-party service. Companies like Instacart, DoorDash, and Shipt are great starting points.
3. Provide pre-stocked groceries
If you want to make it even easier, provide pre-stocked grocery items for a flat fee. You can create different themed packages like “Breakfast essentials,” “Snack kit,” or a “Romantic meal at home.” Some essentials to include:
- Fresh vegetables
- Fresh fruits
- Bell peppers
- Hot dogs
- Olive oil
- Bread
- Milk
- Apples
- Coffee
- Butter
- Salad materials
- Beer and wine (for an added fee)
- Pastries
- A few frozen food options or refrigerated items
- Other basic supplies, like salt and pepper
Highlighting these options in your property website or pre-arrival communication allows guests to choose what works best for them. Some guests love to plan ahead with their meals!
Marketing your delivery service
Promoting your grocery delivery service is crucial to getting guests to take advantage of it. Here are a few strategies:
- Update Your Listing Description: Clearly outline the grocery delivery service in your Airbnb listing description to make it a key feature of your property.
- Use Professional Photos: Showcase pre-stocked grocery packages or a beautifully organized fridge to entice potential guests.
- Communicate Early: Mention the service in your pre-arrival messages and provide a comprehensive list of grocery options to encourage sales.
Create an upsell
By charging a reasonable markup on grocery store items or service fees for shopping and delivery coordination, you can add a steady stream of additional income. Guests are often willing to pay an extra premium for convenience, especially if it elevates their overall experience.
Consider offering bundled packages or discounts for guests who stay for an extended period. For example, allow guests staying a week or more to receive a discounted grocery delivery for multiple days of food supplies.
Final thoughts
Adding an Airbnb grocery delivery service will help you stand out from the crowd. It’s the art of the details, and groceries are not something many other rentals have mastered yet. Create an upsell experience that works for you, and start to see the bookings coming in!
Host Tools provides an automated, unified calendar for short-term rental hosts, allowing you to seamlessly list on all major channels. Start your free trial today!
