It's all in the spin.
Behind the much-publicised boom in bookings for the Singapore Flyer, well in advance of its March 1 opening next year, is a host of package ideas by its management.
Several corporates have already signed up, while charities will also be on board.
JPMorgan Chase will hold a traditional lo hei function there on Feb 19 to mark Chinese New Year. This is, in fact, the Flyer's first corporate group function — the financial services firm has booked all 28 capsules, each of which can hold 28 people.
It will cost as much as $8,888 to book a Flyer capsule during the festive period — the normal price is $2,000.
JPMorgan Chase started talks with the attraction in July and will invite its corporate clients to the event. "Singapore is an important location for us, and it is a good chance to thank our clients and highlight the country and promote tourism here," said its executive director for regional MNC Corporate Banking, Toi Gaik Poh.
The Flyer is also working with a mobile phone-maker to invite adopted charity beneficiaries at a discounted rate before the official opening on Apr 15.
Ideas to drive interest in the 165-m observation wheel at Marina Bay are also based on special events such as the National Day period, when fireworks enthusiasts can stake out the area, and of course, the Singapore Grand Prix race on Sep 28, for which ticketing and package prices are being finalised.
"The opening of the Flyer will mark a new chapter for tourism in Singapore," said Ms Patsy Ong, managing director of Adval Brand Group, the sales, marketing and ticket distribution agent for the Flyer.
Some 60 per cent of capacity has been booked online by travel agents and individuals, while 20 per cent will be set aside for walk-in visitors. In June, the Flyer will have packages targeted at families.
More than 80 full-time and 50 to 100 part-time employees have been recruited, while retail space for the terminal building is almost fully let.
Slots on the Flyer's inaugural flights from Feb 11 to 13 have already been fully snapped up. But Feb 14 is still open to the public: The Flyer's special Valentine's Day package, at $399 per couple, will feature champagne, roses and chocolates.
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