BarChick launches SMS recommendation service

BarChick has launched a new ‘bar concierge service’, allowing users to receive tailored bar recommendations and bookings by text message.

BarChick’s new ‘concierge service’ sends tailored bar recommendations to consumers by text message

Described as “like WhatsApp, but for bars” and “your boozing PA”, BarChick Concierge is currently available as an SMS service. Consumers can text BarChick with their bar recommendation requests, and the group will then give them three options before making a booking for their preferred choice.

Those wishing to use BarChick Concierge can also message the group through work communications platform Slack. The service will be available as a standalone app at a later date.

“Over the last couple of months, we’ve found that a staggering 70% of our consumers are in a chat app at the same time as deciding which bar to go to,” said the group’s tech team. “The vast majority are also doing it at work, where they’re time constrained and juggling various tasks.”

BarChick will test BarChick Concierge in “various different messaging contexts” over the next six months.

The group added: “We find out what kinda bar you’re looking for, provide you with three recommendations and then book you into the one you choose. We’ll provide you with just enough information about each bar to help you make the best decision.”

Ali Reynolds, bar manager at London’s Hawksmoor, said: “BarChick does a great job of promoting the best bars in the best cities. The concierge element to it is now ensuring people can go and experience these great bars any day of the week. It’s genius.”