Online app retailer launches a real-world store

Openspace, an online marketplace for mobile apps, recently launched what may well be the world's first physical app store.

Now that virtually all the bricks-and-mortar retail world has established at least some sort of presence online, it’s become increasingly common to see the flip side of that phenomenon occurring. Case in point: Openspace, an online marketplace for mobile apps, recently launched what may well be the world’s first physical app store. Colorado-based Openspace aims to help consumers avoid having to search for apps randomly by focusing instead on curated collections. Users can browse through app collections created by friends, celebrities and other shoppers around a particular purpose or interest; they can also follow collections they like for new additions. More than a million apps are available on the site, and users can create and share their own collections as well. Now, with Openspace’s bricks-and-mortar Boulder store, shoppers can browse apps in person while a staff of “app gurus” is on hand to offer suggestions and advice. Developers can make personal appearances as well through planned events, which are also announced on Openspace’s Facebook page. The distinctions between online and off are forever blurring. How can your brand help build some bridges from one side to the other? Spotted by: Cecilia Biemann