Institute For The Future

Neurocentric Retail

One of the questions I've begun to wonder about as we continue looking into the role of neuroscience in the future of health is where we'll start to see the brain pop up unexpectedly. Here's one candidate: retail. A Springwise post recently tipped me off to Marbles, The Brain Store.

Judging by Marbles' rapid growth--they've opened four stores in less than a year--they must be finding a receptive customer base for their 200 brain fitness products, all of which, the company's site says, are reviewed by a board of experts before being sold. Perhaps their more unusual customer target, though, is corporate customers. On their website, Marbles advertises a toll free number with "concierge services" where an inspired manager can buy "that Perfect Gift for Valued Employees." I'm intrigued, but also skeptical. Brain health strikes me as a pretty natural direction for workplace wellness--theoretically, a sharper employee would be more productive, presumably. But I can also see how that sort of gift, handled artlessly, could cause some serious friction. That aside, I can see the retail concept gaining traction quickly, and wouldn't be at all surprised to start seeing these sorts of stores popping up all over the country.