Starting a Vaporium: What would you like to see in it?
Hey guys! I'm deciding to start a Vaporium in NYC and i'd be grateful for any feedback/cricisticms/comments on services I can offer. I'm trying to create a Vaporium that truly address all the unsatisfied needs of vapors so I've got to ask: What would you like to see in a Vaporium?
Vaporium – Prospective Concept
The vaporiums will be at the intersection of a specialized retail store, social hub, and experience/education center whereby consumers can purchase, rent, and enjoy coffee/wine/beer in an upbeat or relaxing environment. We believe by democratizing “vaping” via a modern hookah bar, we not only revitalize a social phenomenon, but also induct the greater public into next era for a fraction of the cost. This area will be separate (different floor) from our retail selection which will be stocked with select devices and a refined selection of flavors. The space will transform from a collaborative work space in the day whereby users can order a sample pack, coffee and 'vape' in peace. At night, the environment will be a confluence of a speak-easy and a mixed media experience center (live music, comedians, etc) for people to 'vape' in a more social manner.
Catering to Different Customer Archetypes:
A Vaporium will undoubtedly attract an eclectic mix of consumers, but I have identified 3 unique user segments and sub-segments to focus on finding their unsatisfied need and providing a solution. Fundamentally, it will be a Collaborative and open workspace with coffee, snacks, beer & wine (at night only) and various amenities whereby ALL user types can work, socialize, and/or just “Vape” in peace. Essentially, it will address the growing unsatisfied need that ex-smokers, vapors, and the greater public have of not having an outlet to understand and partake in “Vaping” through a cost-effective, informed, and social manner.
· Ex- Smokers: Those who seek “Vaping” as an alternative method to quit smoking entirely.
o Pull:
§ Customer Engagement: Knowledgeable and an attentive staff that can help new entrants understand “Vaping” and field questions and concerns.
§ Vast selection– Appropriate device and e-juice that will cater to any smoker’s desired style, and need.
§ Information – Credible staff coupled with informative leaflets will help educate and inform those who are completely new but want to find out more first hand.
§ Rewards Program- Discount on first time users, those who throw their packs in a visible trash and/or those who bring in new users, and/or reach a certain dollar value will be rewarded with discounts.
§ Support Groups – Strong community of ex-smokers, as well as a resource hub for those who want to find out more on the health benefits/regulation.
· Vapers: Early adopters who seek unique flavors, mechanical work, support groups and updated devices.
o Pull:
§ Refined Selection: E-liquids, mods, modifications and an established community of fellow “Vapers”
§ Mixology Bar – Using proper measuring equipment, users will be able to craft and purchase glass bottles with droppers to store new blends from their e-juices or even boost flavor to existing juices from our range of flavor enhancers.
§ Workshop- Learn and modify through safety demonstrations, coil building, modding, and possibly hold tutorials on DIY juice making
§ Medicinal Corner – Users will be advised on therapeutic e-juices that either contain caffeine, vitamins, melatonin, and various legal herbs to be a healthier replacement to drinking coffee and popping pills.
§ Competitions- From cloud chasing to judging DIY E-Juice Recipes - users skills within all the components of vaping will be challenged and showcased!
§ Interconnectivity – Message boards that keep users up to date on regulations, meet ups, reviews and any news pertaining to Vaping.
· Onlookers: People attracted by the, concept, technology and the new sensation
o Pull:
§ Hookah Bar – Enables groups, and couples to vape socially through a modernly stylized Hookah’s that is ideal for new entrants or for those who want to try a variety of flavors. Ideal for price sensitive users and those who requires low investment.
§ Experience - Showcase “Vaping” as an art form. Light installations that are activated by users expelling clouds will create visually stunning images they can take home/share on social media, live music from emerging artists, and a collaborative work/lounge space that non-vapers can enjoy and medley in.
§ Gifts – Purchase a variety of gifts (Juice packs, starter kits, etc) that are appropriate for any level of Vaper.
§ Novelty Factor – Given all the in-store hype and about Vaping in general, people’s curiosity will lead them inside to investigate further.
§ Information – Knowledgeable staff coupled with informative leaflets will help educate and inform those who are completely new but want to find out more first hand.
[font='Open Sans', Arial, sans-serif]I'd be grateful for any suggestions/criticisms/feedback as my intention is to create a Vaporium that serves to all the needs of this emerging community and not to a conglomerates bottom line! The shop is intended to open in NYC and If you're there i'll throw you some free gear for all the advice![/font]
|