Microsoft to open retail stores

[Chris Blount]

Microsoft plans to open two of its first retail locations in Scottsdale, Ariz., and Mission Viejo, Calif., CNET News has learned.

The software maker confirmed on Tuesday that it has signed leases in both spots as part of an effort to launch its first retail outlets this fall.

"Over a billion people use our products every day yet we don't always have a way to directly connect with them," said Microsoft spokeswoman Kim Stocks. "We see the physical stores, as well as a consistent online experience, helping that."

More here (http://news.cnet.com/8301-13860_3-10296393-56.html)


I'm not quite sure how they are going to pull this off but it's obvious they want to compete with Apple.

[Greg Alsobrook]

but it's obvious they want to compete with Apple.

Or copy... :grin:

http://cultofmac.com/microsoft-shamelessly-rips-off-apple-for-upcoming-stores/13622

[phrelin]

Now let's see....

I've learned to buy everything on that thingy called the interweb and now they come up with something called "a store" whatever that is. Can I push a function key to buy there?:rolleyes:

[JM Anthony]

I've been into the company store on the Redmond campus a number of times and if their retail outlets are anything like it, they'll be a hoot. Now if they only had the same prices...

John

[hdtvfan0001]

I've been into the company store on the Redmond campus a number of times and if their retail outlets are anything like it, they'll be a hoot. Now if they only had the same prices...

John
Yes!!!

If they had a store open here...I'd be in there from time to time for a variety of reasons...:D

[dennisj00]

What a mistake!

I don't even understand the Apple stores. . . geeky boutique, sort of like Brookstone except one brand and you go look.

[LOCODUDE]

WHAT!!!! No NYC store? Now I'm offended...... :D

[4HiMarks]

For Apple it makes sense, since their product line is mainly physical hardware, while software (OS X, basically) is relegated to a "support" role. It makes sense to have a B&M store for people to try out the products and bring them in for repair when there is a problem.

For MS, their product line is mostly software, except for the Xbox, and some mice (does anyone actually own a Zune?). I just can't see a store full of shrink-wrapped cardboard boxes being a very big draw.

[Steve Mehs]

For MS, their product line is mostly software, except for the Xbox, and some mice (does anyone actually own a Zune?). I just can't see a store full of shrink-wrapped cardboard boxes being a very big draw.

I was thinking the exact same thing