Posted by Greg Mills
Microsoft is so inspired by Apple, they seem to copy everything Apple does. Ballmer has recently announced that Microsoft intends to launch at least 75 more Microsoft retail stores, within a couple of years. Ballmer presented a map of the US showing the cities that are soon to be graced with a Microsoft store in the coming year or so.
Not only have previous Microsoft stores been nearly next door or just across the hall from Apple Stores, even the layout and architectural details are borrowed from Apple’s successful retail stores.
See: http://www.neowin.net/news/microsoft-unveils-location-of-75-new-retail-stores-on-a-map
Previous reports indicate that while Apple Stores are normally very busy, Microsoft stores are normally nearly empty. Microsoft is going ahead anyway, hoping to “expand the Microsoft story”. Some people would consider empty stores embarassing to the brand and figure it just isn’t a good idea for Microsoft to push the retail concept, considering previous experiences.
