b8ta store in Palo Alto offers a fun new way to explore tech gadgets

programmable robots at the b8ta store

Like a toy store for Silicon Valley, the new b8ta store in downtown Palo Alto is full of the latest tech gadgets for home, life and fun, all available to touch and try. It’s the perfect place to explore the “Internet of Things” that promises to change modern life through technology.

From programmable robots to door locks that open through a smartphone, ‘boosted’ skateboards and ‘smart’ suitcases, b8ta has something to pique the interest of any gadget junkie. With everything out on display and sales reps to help with demos, b8ta might be the ultimate ‘try before you buy’ playground for Palo Alto’s entrepreneurs, engineers and early adopters.

A new retail experience that helps both tech consumers and sellers

“I was always frustrated that there was no good place to try out new technologies,” said b8ta CEO Vibhu Norby. “The big box stores don’t have the latest gadgets and when I ordered online, I was often disappointed when the product arrived. I started b8ta to create a retail environment that would help both new companies and tech consumers meet their needs.”

A store that doesn’t rely on sales?

While b8ta looks a bit like other tech stores, with its sleek tables and modern decor, its business model may offer a revolutionary approach to retail.

no need to water with this high tech planter

Here’s what’s different about b8ta…

b8ta doesn’t make money from selling products. b8ta’s business model is based on renting space to manufacturers to showcase their products. While customers can make purchases in the b8ta store, the company doesn’t rely on sales for its profits.
b8ta doesn’t set prices. Prices are controlled by the manufacturers through an app that changes the ipad display next to each product. They can mark prices down or down whenever they want.
b8ta keeps track of what customers do. Using discreet, ceiling-mounted cameras, b8ta monitors how which products draw customer attention, passing this information onto sellers to give immediate feedback.

b8ta CMO Phillip Raub in the Palo Alto store

A waiting list for b8ta shelf space

Tech companies are eager to showcase their latest gadgets in b8ta’s cool environment, but the biggest limitation is space. “We only have room for about 20% of the products that have contacted us so far,” said Vibhu Norby. Products at b8ta must fit into one of store’s four categories: sense, home, play or move.

Location is ideal for drawing a tech savvy crowd

b8ta’s location on Bryant Street in downtown Palo Alto gets a lot of foot traffic and people are drawn to the brightly colored robots in the windows.

“People come to Palo Alto from around the world to get inspiration,” said b8ta sales associate Leo Stout. “This store is a place for learning and sharing that appeals to everyone who loves tech, from tourists, to kids, to 70 year old locals.”

customers get up close and personal with the latest gadgets at the b8ta store

b8ta offers a new way for stores to compete

While ‘brick and mortar’ retail may be losing ground to online shopping, b8ta’s founder doesn’t think stores are going away any time soon. “We have a consumption-driven culture and people seek human interaction that goes beyond the transaction of just buying,” said Vibhu Norby. “Our experience is that once you touch something, you are much more likely to want to own it for yourself.”