CASTORAMA
CastoLab
A characteristic project I completed, was setting up the CastoLab in Antibes.
We set up the Castolab as a way to modernise the way in which we present ourselves to customers, and to allow more flexibility and creativity in their DIY projects. The Castolab was also a means to introduce the maker movement to the general public and bring the makers into the store as well.
A maker space in the store
To set up the Lab, we installed a couple of CNC milling machines, a laser cutter and 3d printers in the store. We trained selected store personnel in the use of the machines, and also recruited a ‘Castolab manager’ who was versed in using design and illustration tools, who could help customers bring their ideas to life.
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Because this was a relatively ‘radical’ idea for a traditional DIY store, we linked it to the existing wood cutting service.
The current service only allowed customers to have their wood planks. Panels and worktops cut in straight lines, so we advertised that with our new service, customers could customise shapes and dimensions to be cut out, and so they can customise their projects to suit them better.
We used this thread to educate and introduce customers to the world of digital manufacturing, and soon enough we had people coming in with their own designs of chairs, bedposts, lamps etc. that they wanted to bring to life in the Castolab.
A side revenue stream was generated with professionals and small businesses coming into the store to order signage, badges, trophies etc. The lab paid for itself within a year.
End to End Project Management
I was co-lead of the project, and was responsible right from designing what the service and the proposition would be like.
I visited several fablabs and maker spaces to research options and understand more about the equipment we needed.
I also worked on the pricing structure of the service, and worked on linking it with the existing services and products in the store to create a full experience.
I was also involved in the recruitment and training of the store personnel, as well as the setup, décor and look and feel of the lab within the store. I worked with store merchandising team to map out and put in place the physical journey of the customers in the store to make their movement from the products to the lab to the tills most efficient.
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I even built, sanded and put together some of the furniture that was put in the space, and even swept and cleaned the place right before the inauguration.
I was involved at every step of the way, and in order to contribute I had to teach myself several new things too.
The keyring I embossed myself on the laser cutter in the store is still one of my prized possessions.
