Airbnb is partnering with Instacart to pilot a service that allows guests to pre-order groceries and have them stocked in their accommodations. Previously, guests had to use a delivery app to order and pack their necessities after arrival. Once this pilot is fully implemented, guests will be able to arrive stocked with essentials before departure, allowing for a more relaxed and fulfilling trip.
This service empowers hosts with a new role, one Airbnb is creating. When a guest completes an order through the app, the host receives a notification and chooses a delivery time that fits their schedule. Hosts earn $25 per order for packing up the items before check-in. They also receive a $100 bonus for completing their first order. The service is available up to three weeks prior to the stay, making it easier to plan your trip.
Hosts can track delivery status in real time and are required to complete packing at least three hours before check-in. Food safety regulations must be followed during the packing process, and quality standards are also in place to ensure service quality. Airbnb anticipates this structure will improve guest satisfaction and expand host revenue opportunities.
This experiment aligns with Airbnb's expansion of its "Services" category, launched this year. The company has been strengthening its strategy to strengthen its travel platform competitiveness by offering a variety of accommodation-related services, such as massages, haircuts, and chef-created specialties. CEO Brian Chesky has stated that the Services category will significantly increase annual revenue in the future.
The new kitchen stocking service will run for approximately three months, starting January 5th of next year, with expansion planned based on feedback. It remains to be seen how this experiment, which offers travelers the convenience of arriving more prepared, and hosts a new reward structure, will fare.
