Dive Brief:

• In anticipation of the holiday season, Joann introduced 3D printers, including the Polaroid PlaySmart 3D printer and the 3D Sculpto printer, to its U.S. stores, which the retailer will sell in more than 500 stores and online for $599.99 and $499.99, respectively, the company announced in a press release. 

• The retailer is also expanding its Cricut and Glowforge technologies to allow customers to create cards, T-shirts, home décor and other crafts to position itself as a "one-stop destination for a personalized holiday season," the company said.

• Joann announced it will continue to open new locations and remodel existing stores with features like the Creators' Studio community space for hosting events and workshops; a Modernized Cutting Bar for receiving digital updates on when a staffer can cut customers' fabric; and the Joann's Custom Shop concierge service for custom sewing and tailoring needs. The retailer plans to add new Cricut Shops in 13 stores, with additional square footage, work tables, demo areas and more machines and materials. 

Dive Insight:

Joann has taken several steps to revamp its retail operations over the past couple of years. The rollout of Glowforge into Joann's stores comes after the retailer invested in the startup in December 2018. The retailer also introduced a service enabling consumers to use software to create custom fabrics. Joann's latest announcement appears to show that the company is continuing on this path. 

"This year, we are prioritizing innovations in crafting," Joann Chief Merchandising Officer Rob Will said in a statement. "Customers are asking for convenience and more time-efficient ways to create, and we're bringing them new tools to bring their inspiration to life."

While the company experienced executive changeover in the past couple of years, with Jill Saltau exiting to head J.C. Penney and Wade Miquelon replacing her at Joann, it appears the company is continuing its expansion and innovation efforts. In June 2018, the retailer introduced its a tech-focused concept store, so the introduction of new technologies comes as no surprise. Per the company's release, the retailer is launching these technologies just in time to help consumers during the holidays. And the timing of its rollout — weeks prior to Black Friday — may prove beneficial to Joann; many consumers have already started their holiday shopping. 

"With less time between holidays this year, we're providing customers with new omnichannel services and special promotions to get their shopping, crafting and decorating done early," Joann Stores Chief Customer Officer Chris DiTullio said in a statement.