Text 56143, 44 rader
Skriven 2009-07-29 07:12:00 av TOM WALKER (1:123/140)
Ärende: Microsoft Going Retail?
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Microsoft to open stores in Arizona, California
15:10 PDT            Tuesday, July 28, 2009

SEATTLE -- Microsoft Corp. said Tuesday it is planning to
open its first two retail stores in Arizona and California this fall.

The software maker said Tuesday it signed leases at shopping
centers in Mission Viejo, Calif. and Scottsdale, Ariz. The Shops at
Mission Viejo is already home to an Apple store. The other location,
Scottsdale Fashion Square, does not have a competing Apple Inc. shop.

The software maker confirmed details reported earlier by
CNET News.

Microsoft maker picked those areas because they're "hot
markets," with the right demographics, said Kim Stocks, a corporate
communications director at the company.

She said the stores will sell laptops in addition to
Microsoft and third-party software, Zunes, and Xbox 360 games and
consoles.

Last week, a document surfaced online showing concept
sketches for a Microsoft store where people can order personalized
laptops, take classes and get help from experts. Microsoft said the
sketches were early ideas and that the company hasn't finalized its
designs.

Redmond-based Microsoft's stores are a way for the company
to introduce consumers to its products in person, but they are not meant
as a product showcase or a replacement for big electronics stores,
Stocks said. However, Microsoft does want the stores to turn a profit,
she said.

Stocks would not say exactly when the stores will open,
whether other locations are planned to open at the same time, or how
many stores Microsoft is planning in all.

In February, Microsoft hired David Porter, a 25-year
Wal-Mart veteran to run its retail effort, but has released few details
since.
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