MS finally moves beyond trial stores

Microsoft has finally opted to expand its retail stores beyond its two trial areas, a pair of job listings have confirmed. Recruiting for spots in Denver and San Diego has confirmed that the company plans to at least double its presence beyond Mission Viejo, California and Scottsdale, Arizona. The exact locations haven't been given away.

The company was first rumored and eventually confirmed to be taking a wait-and-see approach on retail as it has wanted to gauge interest in Microsoft-run stores before committing to a wider deployment. So far, its two stores do sell real notebooks, phones and Zunes but are seen partly as retail "experiments" where the company wants to pass on what it learns to other retail chains.

Compared to Apple, which already has stores in Denver and San Diego, Microsoft's stores are believed to have at least moderate amounts of traffic. Its specific figures aren't known but, with future retail openings, are likely strong enough to justify additional stores. [via SAI]

By Electronista Staff