Lakeshore Learning Bets on ‘Experience’ to Redefine Educational Retail

By Michael Bennett

November 03, 2025

CARSON, Calif. – In an era dominated by online learning and readily available educational resources, one retailer is taking a decidedly analog approach. Lakeshore Learning, a leading developer and retailer of educational materials, this week unveiled a fully redesigned store in Houston, Texas, signaling a significant bet on the power of experience to attract customers and redefine educational retail.

The revamped location, situated in the upscale Galleria mall, isn’t simply a place to buy flashcards and building blocks. It's designed to be an immersive environment where children (and their educators) can interact with products, test theories, and rediscover the joy of hands-on learning. The opening coincides with the crucial holiday shopping season, and Lakeshore is hoping to capture a significant share of the market for educational gifts – but the strategy goes deeper than seasonal sales.

“The goal isn’t just to sell products,” explained a retail analyst familiar with the company’s strategy. “It’s to create a destination. A place where teachers can discover new tools, parents can connect with learning resources, and kids can simply have fun exploring.”

A Teacher-Driven Design Philosophy

What sets Lakeshore Learning apart isn’t just the physical redesign of its stores, but its long-standing commitment to educator involvement. The company claims to have over 700 educators on staff, embedded within every aspect of product development and design. This isn’t simply a marketing tactic, according to industry observers. It’s a fundamental principle that guides the company’s approach to creating educational materials.

“We’ve seen a lot of companies pay lip service to teacher feedback,” stated a former education product designer who consulted on the project. “But Lakeshore actually integrates educator insights into the entire process. They’re not just testing products after they’re developed; they’re shaping the design from the very beginning.”

This teacher-driven approach is particularly evident in the company’s recently launched ‘Modern Edge’ furniture line. Designed with both durability and aesthetics in mind, the line aims to create more inspiring and engaging learning environments, moving beyond the traditional, often sterile, classroom setup. The furniture isn't just functional; it's designed to foster creativity and collaboration.

“The new furniture really stands out,” noted a teacher who previewed the Houston store. “It’s modern and stylish, but also incredibly practical. It’s the kind of furniture that actually makes you want to spend time in the classroom.”

Navigating the Rise of Online Learning

Lakeshore’s emphasis on in-store experiences might seem counterintuitive in an era dominated by online learning platforms. However, experts argue that the physical experience of learning remains crucial, particularly for younger children.

“While online resources can supplement learning, they can’t replace the tactile, hands-on experience,” said a child development specialist. “Children learn by doing, by exploring, by interacting with their environment. Lakeshore’s store design allows children to do just that.”

Furthermore, the company is strategically positioning itself as a resource for teachers navigating the increasingly complex landscape of educational technology. The Houston store features dedicated areas where teachers can explore new products, participate in professional development workshops, and connect with their peers.

“Teachers are constantly looking for new and innovative ways to engage their students,” said an education administrator. “Lakeshore provides a space where they can discover those tools and learn how to use them effectively.”

Beyond the Holiday Season: A Long-Term Strategy

The Houston store opening is just the first step in a broader effort to reimagine the Lakeshore Learning retail experience. The company plans to roll out similar redesigns to select locations across the country in the coming months, with a focus on creating immersive, hands-on environments that cater to the needs of both teachers and families.

While the holiday shopping season is undoubtedly a critical period for the company, Lakeshore Learning is taking a long-term view. The goal isn’t just to boost sales; it’s to build a loyal customer base and establish itself as a trusted resource for educators and families alike.

“This is about creating a destination,” said the retail analyst. “A place where people can come to learn, explore, and connect with the joy of learning. And that’s a strategy that can endure long after the holiday season is over.”

The company's success will hinge on its ability to balance the allure of the physical experience with the convenience and accessibility of online learning. However, with its commitment to educator involvement, innovative product design, and immersive retail experiences, Lakeshore Learning appears to be well-positioned to navigate the evolving landscape of educational retail and shape the future of learning.