Experts in unexpected areas of interest make for unique, sensorial amenities
Implications - Given the modern focus on sensory-based experiences, unique services and amenities qualified by experts in unexpected areas of interest have begun to emerge. Although the areas of expertise stray from wine or beer, these experts are still often referred to as sommeliers, with their expertise revolving around the sensorial experience of consuming a product. This progression speaks to a consumer desire to learn more about sensory-based consumption, especially when it goes beyond the realm of taste.
Workshop Question - How could you tweak your product or service to communicate a sense of elitism?
Trend Themes
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Sensory-based Experiences — Consumer desire for sensory-based experiences in unique, unexpected areas of interest creates opportunities for hyper-niche sommeliers.
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Expert-led Education — Expert sommeliers provide opportunities for sensorial education, expanding the palette of consumers and creating opportunities for conscious holistic living.
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Holistic Lifestyle — The emergence of unique sommeliers highlights a rising trend towards consuming goods and services for more than just utilitarian purposes, expanding opportunities for a more holistic approach to life and business.
Industry Implications
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Hospitality — The hospitality industry can capitalize on the trend of hyper-niche and expert-led sensory experiences by creating innovative amenities and services that are curated to engage customers on new levels.
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Food and Beverage — The food and beverage industry can expand on this trend of hyper-niche sommeliers to create unique opportunities for pairing and enhancing their products through innovative expert-led educational experiences.
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Education — The trend towards expert-led sensorial experiences creates opportunities for institutions and businesses to provide unique educational opportunities and curriculums based on the learnings from sensory-based sommeliers.
