E-commerce platform Shopify "has officially opened its first multi-purpose space," in Manhattan's SoHo neighborhood, "designed to support existing and budding entrepreneurs," Hypebeast reports.
According to the story, "The two-story, 8,000 square-foot space brings to life the platform’s thriving community of merchants and local business owners. Upon entering, visitors are met with a rotating pop-up shop of selections from several local merchants, currently showcasing two Brooklyn-based companies: Nguyen Coffee Supply and indoor plant retailer Greenery Unlimited.
"In the center of the open floor plan sits the Cha Ching Café, operated by merchant Birch Coffee, and on the left side of the cafe are casual workstations, where business founders and their employees can meet with Shopify support experts in person for free 30-minute one-on-one sessions."
“Much of NYC’s heart and soul comes from its entrepreneurs,” said Shopify President Harley Finkelstein. “To keep NYC as one of the most entrepreneurial cities in the world, we’re giving New Yorkers the resources and tools they need to build successful businesses.”
- KC's View:
-
If you're trying to help retailers compete against Amazon, it is critical to have a strong consultative component to your offering … and that seems to be the clear message from Shopify here.
