Business

Claire Parry's Unique Approach To Client Care

Issue 106

Nestled in the heart of Newcastle's ever-evolving hospitality scene, Week2Week Serviced Apartments offers something distinct for travellers and corporate clients alike.

Unlike the faceless accommodation found on major booking platforms, Week2Week prides itself on delivering a personalised, people-centric experience, setting them apart in the competitive serviced apartment market.

One of the core values at Week2Week is the emphasis on human interaction. Rather than relying on automated booking systems, Week2Week encourages clients to engage directly through online chat, email, or their preferred means – good old fashioned phone calls. “We tailor every stay to the individual needs of our guests,” says Claire, “whether that’s providing a hands-on approach for those unfamiliar with the UK or the city to a more hands-off service for long-term corporate clients.”

This personal touch is especially valuable for those relocating to Newcastle, or those caught in unfortunate situations like house fires or floods. Claire’s team often assists clients who have never been to the UK before, ensuring a smooth and stress-free transition. This degree of care sets Week2Week apart from the mainstream production line approach found in much of the short-term rental market.

Safety, cleanliness, and legal compliance are of paramount importance at Week2Week. The company undergoes annual audits and holds a coveted Gold Standard from Quality in Tourism, which ensures that each property is thoroughly inspected for compliance. This not only reassures clients but also provides peace of mind to property owners who entrust their valuable assets to Claire’s team.

“We work with a lot of overseas investors who need to know their properties are in safe hands,” Claire explains. “Integrity and trust are huge parts of our business.”

While many serviced apartment companies cater to short stays, Week2Week specialises in mid- to long-term stays, often ranging from 20 to 30 nights or more. In response to the changing landscape of business travel post-COVID, longer stays have become more common, and Claire has adapted her business to reflect this demand.

“We are seeing more corporate clients booking for extended periods,” she said. “It’s not just about a place to sleep—it’s about creating a home for however long the stay may be.”

Week2Week manages a handpicked portfolio of properties in Newcastle and surrounding areas like Jesmond, Gosforth, Tynemouth, and Gateshead Quayside. Each property is selected based on its prime location and suitability for guests. The company is very selective about the properties they take on, ensuring that both the interior and exterior meet their high standards.

“If we wouldn’t stay there ourselves, we wouldn’t include it in our portfolio,” Claire says, reflecting the company’s commitment to offering safe, high-quality accommodation, particularly for lone travellers who may be more sensitive to location and security. This is especially important for their female clients who perhaps are unfamiliar with the area and want to be safe in their short-term home.

The ethos of Week2Week extends beyond the guest experience— it’s ingrained in the company’s internal culture. With a small core team of five and an extended team of suppliers and contractors, Claire has fostered an environment built on shared values. Everyone involved, from cleaners to electricians, adheres to the same high standards that Claire holds herself and her team to.

“We are all about people. Our extended team is aligned with our company values, and that’s how we maintain such a high quality of service.”

While some businesses focus on aggressive expansion, Claire takes a more thoughtful approach to growth. Week2Week is not just about increasing the number of properties but about diversifying and adapting to client needs. The company also collaborates with other local providers, forming a supportive network within Newcastle’s business community.

“We like to work together with other businesses,” Claire says. “It’s not just about growing our portfolio; it’s about supporting our clients with the best options, even if that means collaborating with others.” Indeed, Claire is currently acting as a mentor for similar companies across the UK.

Claire’s journey in the serviced apartment industry began with her late mother, who founded Week2Week back in 2000. What started as a small portfolio of properties has evolved into a trusted name, known for its personalised service, attention to detail, and commitment to quality. Today, Claire continues to uphold her mother’s legacy while adapting to the modern needs of the market.

For Claire, the success of Week2Week comes down to staying true to the values that have shaped the business from day one. “We do what we say on the tin, and we always look after people,” she says with a smile, underscoring the human element that makes Week2Week truly unique.

With a deep-rooted passion for the North East and a peoplefirst approach, Claire Parry is not just running a business—she’s providing a home away from home for her guests, one that comes with the reassurance of care, quality, and a personal touch.

www.week2week.co.uk – 0191 2813129

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