Sample Lab in Harajuku Tokyo.
Sample Lab, which opened in Harajuku July 2007, allows visitors to sample the latest – and often still unreleased – products, mainly in food, beverage and cosmetics. Consumer response has been overwhelming, showing that even in a city like Tokyo where new items appear on the shelves daily consumers are thrilled to be given first access to new products. And as visitors are required to rate the tested products, this turns the Sample Lab into a great and cost-effective tool for companies to gauge consumer reaction before product’s launch.
But the appeal of trying and testing is no longer just limited to Tokyo. Railway operator JR West runs Angelbe – dubbed a “self make-up lounge” – inside Osaka station. Targeted at women in their 20s and 30s, the space offers the chance to try out a dazzling array of new cosmetics, beauty products and even home electronics in stylish, individual booths.
Architect Cafe offers yet another take on the concept – it is a restaurant that serves as a showroom for furniture and interior brands. Guests have ample opportunity to test-drive these items during their meal – and of course have the chance to purchase them afterwards.