Forget the age-old tales of having to walk uphill both ways in the snow to get to class—college students at Syracuse University in New York don't even have to coordinate their own grocery shopping, laundry or cleaning, thanks to a concierge service that aims to motivate them by giving them a taste of the good life.
Student-owned and operated Precious Time is a personal assistant, errand and concierge service just for college students. Students can become members by charging pre-paid accounts with a minimum of USD 50, and money is drawn from the account to pay for services as needed, plus a percentage for Precious Time's own profit. Services include placement and delivery of take-out orders from local restaurants, grocery shopping, house cleaning, flower delivery and booking tutors.
While a concierge service for college students may seem over the top, education at top colleges comes with a high price tag. So it’s not surprising that some students are willing to buy extra time by outsourcing domestic chores, so that they can fully focus on their studies. The concept could also do well on other campuses, and Precious Time hints at franchise opportunities on their website. What about concierge services tailored to other busy demographics who struggle to find the time for all the items on their ‘to do’ lists, like working parents or small business owners?
Website: www.precioustimeny.com
Contact: drewaustin@precioustimeny.com
Spotted by: Susanna Haynie
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"So it’s not surprising that some students are willing to buy extra time by outsourcing domestic chores, so that they can fully focus on their studies."
I don't think it has anything to do with focusing on their studies. As a SU Alumni, I can say that the students that can afford to do this, have had all these things taken for them while in their parents house. Whether it is their actual parents (doubtful!) or another maid service, they haven't had to lift a finger ever, why should they once they are in college.
India already has its own version - called Les Concierge that operates out of Bombay. It caters to all segments - from individuals to families to small businesses. It offers similar services, and more - bill payments, getting forms and application of various utilities from bureaucratic state run departments (which are a big hassle and seriously time consuming in India). The last time I checked, they didn't need an advance deposit, just the fee for the required service plus their commission, to be paid on completion of the assignment.
Anu Pandit | August 30, 2007 7:22 AM