The University of Arizona is proud to announce the grand opening of the Lundgren Consumer Science Lab for Fall 2024. Made possible by a generous gift from Terry and Tina Lundgren, the LCS Lab aims to revolutionize retail education and research. The Lundgren Consumer Science Lab houses a state-of-the-art retail learning laboratory with the latest virtual reality technology, digital "maker" tools, in-store consumer tracking solutions, and display hardware. This provides students with hands-on experience in diverse retail scenarios.
The LCS Lab also includes a retail workshop featuring:
- A "staged" retail space in partnership with the UA Campus Store
- Advanced in-store analytics and space optimization software
- A touchless POS system
- Space for brands to host pop-up shops and product testing
- Back-office software from Nielsen and Adobe for market analysis and promotional campaign development
Digital Makerspace & Creator Corner
The most powerful force in retail marketing is now Influencers-- many of whom are UA students. The LCS Lab's Digital Makerspace or Creator Corner offers a free resource space for all UA students, faculty, and staff that includes:
- Image
A video/podcasting set for up to four people
- Professional lighting
- Equipment checkout for lighting and audio kits
- A photogrammetry station for 3D photography and product rendering
- Staffing by UCATT students to assist users with resources and enhancing content via the Adobe Creative Cloud tools.
An Exact Virtual “Digital Twin”
The Lundgren Consumer Science Lab has spearheaded the development of a virtual retail environment (digital twin). This virtual replica of a retail space allows for optimizing store layouts, inventory management practices, and customer experiences.
Both faculty and students will be able to utilize the digital twin to:
- Create simulations and test changes, such as rearranging shelves or adding displays
- Study data-driven decision-making through real-time data from sensors in the Retail Workshop
The Lundgren Consumer Science Lab aims to become a hub for retail innovation, providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the ever-evolving retail landscape.