Target Renovates IoT Store to Help Startups

Originally published by RIS News

Target Open House is back after a seven-week renovation. The connected device concept store gives guests hands-on interactions with new products and services, and provides the entrepreneur community a spot to gather and learn from one another and consumers. Since opening in July 2015, more than 150,000 guests, entrepreneurs and Chief Product Officers from more than 75 different companies have visited.

"Our latest iteration of the space, brought to life with the help of our partners from our in-house creative team, features a number of exciting new elements and products I’m thrilled to share," said Gene Han, vice president of Consumer Internet of Things (IoT) and head of Target’s innovation office, in Target's blog.

The new Garage space serves as an area for companies to showcase or launch their products on a retail shelf, get valuable quantitative and qualitative feedback on their products and have direct visibility to Target buyers.

"We’re making it easier for startups to get their products in front of thousands of guests earlier, before they’re even available for sale," said Han.

A few of the sixteen products on display currently in the Garage include: Acton Blink Electric Skateboard, $699; Brilliant Control smart light switch, $189; Cinder Precision Grill, $299; Flic Single bluetooth smart button, $19.99; Obe ProBowl smart bowl, $99; and Knit Learning Monitor sleep intelligence, $249.

Along with new products, Target is also debuting a new tool called Mission Control. This software will help startups submit products to be at Target Open House and also offers a real-time dashboard for startups to see guest interactions, get feedback and understand traffic and sales for their products.

The renovated Target Open House also features an updated event space to host larger gatherings, as well as enhanced feedback and analytics for vendors. Target has also added a new arrangement of rooms and experiences to the signature acrylic house inside the store space.

"IoT is a constantly evolving space with infinite opportunity — and we’re committed to helping guests understand it better," said Han.