Talbott, Barbara M.2020-09-102020-09-102006-09-017459926https://hdl.handle.net/1813/71301The innovative definition of luxury developed over the past 45 years by Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts is based on service excellence, melded with top-notch facilities and operations. Four Seasons began by focusing on what was then a small segment of the market—the affluent frequent traveler—and in the process, built a global luxury brand. As the experience of Four Seasons demonstrates, personal service can be a source of superior profitability, reputation, and growth. Four Seasons’ success depends on choosing employees who provide service that is genuine and innovative, on developing standards that are both meaningful and flexible, and on maintaining a unique culture that makes delivery of both possible.en-USRequired Publisher Statement: © Cornell University. This report may not be reproduced or distributed without the express permission of the publisher.Cornellhotelsluxurycustomer serviceguest experienceFourThe Power of Personal Service: Why It Matters What Makes It Possible How It Creates Competitive Advantagearticle