Pop-up store helps launch new software platform

Pop-up retail is a trend we’ve been covering for years, but it wasn’t until recently that we had seen it put to work for software. Sure enough though, part of Danish software firm Podio’s strategy for publicly launching its online work platform last week was a pop-up store on the streets of San Francisco. Podio — whose social platform lets professional workers create their own work tools — entered private beta back in September. With more than 200 business applications now available for free in the Podio App Store, the service is priced at USD 99 per month for up to 25 users. Podio supports English, French, Spanish, German and Danish. Just last week, however, Podio made its official debut to the public, marked by a pop-up store on San Francisco’s 6th St. dedicated to that purpose. A variety of events were organized at the store last week to mark the occasion, including a Work 2.0 Hack Day, a promotional Lunch 2.0 and a Scandinavian networking event. The store will remain open for “the coming weeks”, Podio says, serving as a focal point for workshops, networking and press events during the platform’s launch period. All the world may be online, but there’s still plenty to be said for foot traffic and the ability to make a personal impression. What has your brand done with pop-up retail lately? (Related: Collaborative pop-up store focuses on eco-friendly goods — Online portal connects all those involved in pop-up retail — Nationwide network of pop-up marketing spaces.)