As a science-based company, 3M is no stranger to laboratories. But today we officially opened the doors to a lab that’s different from all our others.

The state-of-the-art CBG Data Science and Merchandising Laboratory is designed to uncover key insights about consumer behaviors through data science and analytics to accelerate point-of-sale for our customers through demand generation. 

It’s a highly data-driven approach that integrates data science, retail analytics, marketing and merchandising all in one space.

“This lab is all about our customers and consumers, who are at the core of everything we do,” said Joaquin Delgado, executive vice president, 3M Consumer Business Group. “The array of solutions and innovations made possible here is unlike any other in the industry.”

The lab is divided into three distinct yet complementary areas:

In the Data Science Lab area, the 3M team will use data science to develop proprietary machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms which we use to optimize how CBG goes to market, both on-line and in-store.

The Visualization Lab provides a collaborative space for the 3M team and customers to further explore the analytics which underlie recommendations and strategies to our customers.

The Retail Lab inspires evaluation and testing of packaging and merchandising in an actual, physical space.  The retail lab offers our customers and teams the opportunity to create stronger engagement by learning from and building on input and insights from their shoppers.

“We know that when our customers win, we win,” said Paul Keel, senior vice president, 3M Business Development and Marketing-Sales. “Collaboration is a key part of our brand, and we believe the CBG Data Science and Merchandising Lab will drive even stronger partnerships with retailers as we learn and innovate together.”

This comprehensive approach to data analytics and merchandising uses science to drive machine-enabled efficiencies while inspiring human creativity as we accomplish our CBG mission of Bringing 3M to the Hearts and Minds of consumers.

The 3M Consumer Business Group develops, manufactures and markets a wide variety of products to make life better at home and at work under flagship brands including Post-it, Scotch, Command and Filtrete.