Thank You Angus for your in-depth insight as well as for adding valid points.
To cater for new users and/or those who cant afford the high initial cost, i"d rent out Mods or even Hookah's that can accept e-juice (that will already be in sterilized atomizers) per hour basis along with a sample of juices, with the intention of familiarizing them with the concept of "vaping," and to the vast array of flavors available. I'll def ensure there is a proper workshop whereby vapers can learn, modify and purchase mod specific items.
To Vaperature's excellent point of having a juice chef and relying on an assumption that vapers like to mix their juices (I certainly do) : I thought (especially to minimize costs and drive sales) would be to have a DIY Mixology bar where users are given proper measuring equipment to mix their e-juices and create hybrid flavors which they can store in empty drip bottles that we will sell..
A Vaporium will undoubtly attract an eclectic mix of consumers, but I have identified 3 unique user segments and sub-segments to focus on identifying 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 users can work, socialize, and/or just “Vape” in peace. If you think I should focus on more segments or would like to see a particular feature/offering and i'll honestly try and make it work!
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Ex- Smokers: Those who seek “Vaping” as an alternative method to quit smoking entirely.
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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.
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Vapers: Early adopters who promote and Vape everyday
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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. E.g. www.vaporboost.com/
- 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.
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Onlookers: People attracted by the technology, concept, and the new sensation
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Pull:
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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.
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Gifts – Purchase a variety of gifts (Juice packs, starter kits, etc) that are appropriate for any level of Vaper.
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Novelty Factor – Given all the in-store hype and about Vaping in general, people’s curiosity will lead them inside to investigate further.
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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.
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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!
