Engaging consumers is important, but the key for retailers is education. That's the approach the founders of Wellbots.com have taken. The smart technology retailer sells robots, home automation, personal care and connected devices, and 3D printers. Along with being a technology marketplace, Wellbots.com, which is still in its startup phase, is positioning itself as a resource center for consumers curious about smart technology.

"We have put a big emphasis on educating customers" says David Prochaska, head of marketing for the company. "We do that through our blog and through the in-depth explanations and robust supporting documents we offer on most of the products we sell. We're really taking a branded content approach. We want to engage customers by providing information they'll find useful."