Polaroid Fotobar- Where experience meets art

Minnetonka, MN based PLR IP Holdings LLC has launched an exclusive Photo gallery named Polaroid Fotobar at the Delray Beach in Florida marking a milestone in the brand's history. "We've got a brand and a history of 75 years on innovation and while we've launched brands over the years, this is the first bricks-and-mortar retail presence we've had,” says Scott Hardy, President and CEO at PLR IP Holdings LLC (Parent company of Polaroid).

Crafted by international design firms P2 Interiors LLC and RIS Design LLC, Polaroid Fotobar is all about "liberating treasured images in a gallery like setting”, where the main focus is not just selling products but also offering a service. "Polaroid Fotobar makes printing digital photos fun; therefore we wanted to create a space that was clean, modern and easy to navigate,” says Ponch Herrera, Owner -- P2 Interiors LLC.

Spread across 2,000 sq. ft, the store sports a customer friendly ambience blended with a clean and bright backdrop, and created mainly to highlight the vivid objet d'arts presented by Fotobar and generate an experience for its customers. But working around the entire merchandise within the limited space came as the biggest challenge for the design group, as they wanted the customers to touch and see everything in an inviting environment. "We intended to create a gallery setting, where the customer could see and touch everything. We wanted people to feel like they are walking into an experience. Like an art exhibit, customers can sit on the bench or walk the aisles,” shares Robin Struhl, Principal, Owner at RIS Design LLC.

Besides the placement of the merchandise and fixtures, which have helped in stimulating a fresh look, the strategic lighting at the Fotobar too greatly contributed to creating a special milieu. Practical lighting complements the products showcased at the Fotobar, while recessed LED strip light on the ceiling leads to the photo wall at the back of the store and helps patrons take a tour through the store.  At the back of the store a Studio Area has been fashioned where classes as well as special events can be hosted. The space includes different backdrops and a green screen area where people can shoot and superimpose against different background types. There is also provision for local photographers to display their work and inspire creativity among the customers.

Speaking on expanding this concept to other locations, Scott says, "We think having stores will open up a new paradigm and new opportunities for us. The Polaroid Fotobar Delray is the first of at least 10 locations. Future locations are slated for Las Vegas, Union Station, Boca Raton and others.”