The New York Times' corporate venturing unit unveils its first product, after the media group decided to start the venture arm based on its experience running a research and development lab.

The New York Times Company, the US-based media group, launched Ricochet, a digital marketing tool, on Thursday, which is the first product to be commercialised by its recently formed corporate venturing group.

The New York Times Company added R&D Ventures, its corporate venturing unit, had "evolved" from the company’s research and development lab and is looking to bring new product concepts to market.

Ricochet allows companies to pick New York Times Company articles which are consistent with their marketing strategy, and…