Despite being about 300 people in size, First in Service considers itself a “boutique agency.” That “boutique” feel is partially developed by its nine (soon to be 10) locations worldwide—more than most companies of a similar size.
In addition to its New York City headquarters, First in Service (often abbreviated as F1S), has offices in Miami, Los Angeles, Toronto, Vancouver, Bogota, Madrid and London, plus a very recent opening in Mexico City. By the end of the year, F1S will open a Montreal location, as well.
While we were visiting the New York office last week, Gina Gabbard, Chief Strategy Officer of F1S, told LATTEthat the numerous offices give advisors a much more local perspective and the feel of working with a smaller company. “Covering a wide span—and for being a boutique agency—it’s quite significant,” said Gabbard, “because normally boutique agencies, you wouldn’t see that type of .” She added that “it was really what had always envisioned; he wanted for the business to support the different verticals.”
To that point, the New York City office supports about 80 team members (including independent contractors and support staff); Toronto has about 40; and the new Mexico City office has 15 luxury travel advisors who call it a base.
“You see, each office still has that boutique feel,” Gabbard explained.
Australia on the Table?
As for a potential Australia expansion, Gabbard didn’t rule that out of the question but admitted it’s not on the immediate horizon. First in Service has, however, looked to Australia to bolster its 24/7 support service.
Earlier this year, the agency launched First24, which comprises a set of support staff located around the world, who are able to assist travel advisors and their clients with any issues around the clock.
Gabbard says the program helps First if service offer “as quick of a service as we possibly can.”
