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Airbnb "Super Chef"

"I swear, the ham and cheese omelets we made tasted totally different because we made them for our guests."

 

Joe Gebbia - Co-Founder of Airbnb - Ted Talk February 2016    

 

 

 

 

Summary

 

 

I became an Airbnb "Super User" and "Promoter" with my first international stay in 2013. I believe in the company and want a chance to shape the user experience.  I know that the next frontier in the sharing economy is in food.  Just as Airbnb relies on the "Super Host" designation to convey reputation in hosting, I suggest a designation of "Super Chef" to convey reputation in rich culinary experiences.  My suggested model will be immediately monetizable and solidify Airbnb as the hospitality leader with the acute ability to pair places to stay with rich cultural experiences.

 

 

What?
Culturally Relevant Meals

Encourage hosts to create delightful culinary experiences that represent their culture and geographic location for an additional cost to guests.

 

 

Why?
Sharing a meal together breaks down stereotypes and prejudices

The Human Reason:

When people of different cultures, socio-economic statuses, and religions eat a meal together, trust is formed. In just one meal, stereotypes, prejudices, and dogmatic beliefs melt away to make the world a better place.  

 

The Business Reason: 

The "bnb" in "Airbnb" stands for "Bed" and "Breakfast." Airbnb is delivering phenomenally on the first "B" ("Bed") but has space to grow in the second "B" ("Breakfast").

When?
ASAP! Food is the final frontier in the sharing economy

If you don't believe me, here's some reading material to convince you:

 

If you're still not convinced, here's a few examples of the soon-to-be-saturated food-sharing market:

  • Dinner party "pop-ups" EatFeastly 

  • A service for home-cooked meals from your neighbors (Josephine)

  • A dinner party tailored specifically to cope with life's challenges (The Dinner Party)

  • Affordable in-home chefs (Kitchit)

 

The market is ripe for Airbnb's expansion into the culinary arts.

Where?
Outside the U.S.

I know what you're thinking.  Anything having to do with handling food is a quagmire of regulations and never-ending policies.  But, do you know what else was previously unthinkable due to policy?  Renting out your bedroom.  Airbnb is a boundary-pusher and must remain that way if they are to scale up without losing their spirit.  I suggest piloting the "Airbnb Superchef" internationally, followed by specific regions of the U.S.

Who?
Hosts and Guests

The Super Host Program will empower hosts to increase their profits.

The Super Host Program will empower guests to enhance their stay by experiencing culture through food.

How?
Start with "Super-Hosts"

"Superhosts" are the cream of the crop of hosts.  These hosts deserve the first opportunity to earn extra revenue by offering culinary add-ons to stays.  Ensuring "superhosts" feel special by including them in pilot tests will provide valuable initial user research on how to fine-tune the experience.

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