Unique experience — truly unique. Differentiation. Competitive advantage. Explore + Experiment = Experience. Joann’s customer is going to LOVE this! They will be making up new projects just to experiment with this. And so are all the customers they will now steal from the market. What a coup!

This is probably a calculated risk. Customers are more involved in the experience. The resulting precut is probably very accurately cut making the whole concept a potential success. We find more retailers investing in technology companies, not just technology. This is a fairly recent trend with important future implications for entrepreneurial technologists.

This is an interesting way of integrating new technology, offering a unique experience, exposing consumers to new technology, and increasing in-store traffic for Joann. For Glowforge the partnership provides more exposure for their technology. Great idea.

Brilliant. The retailer does not need to be the hardware or technology engineer. These types of hardware technologies have little utility to the consumer without the benefit of the physical retail environment to support and educate her. As 3D printing becomes more democratized, Joann reaps the benefits of investing early.

Provided you pick a winner, investing in a technology company as opposed to investing in a technology is a smart play for retailers, since it should — at least in theory — keep you current rather than marrying your offerings to dated systems and products. That said, picking a winner isn’t all that easy. So assuming Glowforge is winner — and I’m not making that assumption — the alliance should be good for Joann Fabrics. As to the second question, the answer is a partial yes. As the cost of 3D printing systems — additive and subtractive — continues to decline they become more practical for retailers to experiment with. But … and it’s a big but … that price decline also makes them more attractive to consumers who can suddenly do in their workshop what they previously had to do at Joann, so the advantage of having the technology in-store is temporary unless retailers can figure out a way to add additional value around the technology — making expert advice available, providing access to… Read more »

As a long time part of the creative industries, I can tell you that this is a big deal. Craft retailers currently offer the use of die cut machines and Cricut, Silhouette and other hands-on machines for a fee or free use with purchase. Adding DIY 3D laser cutting and engraving is a bonus that crafters, makers, DIYers — whatever we are calling them this week — will love.

Joann’s has taken the lead in new store layouts, customer creation work areas and product engagement that ups the in-store experience. It’s a good move.

This is a smart idea that provides a service of value. It gives crafting consumers a reason to visit Joann over rival stores. I have been impressed with the innovations at Joann over the past few years — they stand out, especially compared to less innovative craft retailers like Michaels.

3D laser cutting and engraving services are a great addition to Joann. Crafters, many who are Joann customers, will appreciate the ability to further customize and personalize their projects with innovative cutting and engraving services. It will spark new ideas for crafters and may encourage them to visit Joann stores more frequently and spend more on materials. This is a great strategy for Joann to personalize the customer experience and differentiate from its competitors.

While Joann may not have had to invest in this startup, the investment may provide them greater influence over product development to design the machines to meet Joann’s specific needs.

I believe there is a future with 3D printing in retail. Custom clothing, made to measure and accessories are all in play as the technology matures. It is already making inroads in aerospace and the auto industry. Is retail next?