News

Microsoft re-enters retail along with launch of Windows 7

October 19, 2009

ChannelWeb reports that Microsoft will open its first retail store in Scottsdale, Ariz., on Oct. 22, the same day it launches its Windows 7 platform. It will be the first Microsoft bricks-and-mortar store in nearly a decade.

(From 1999 to 2001, Microsoft operated microsoftSF, an 8,500-square-foot retail space in San Francisco's Metreon shopping center that featured some 160 hardware and software products, as well as clothing, office supplies and other trinkets adorned with the microsoftSF logo.)

According to a recent advertisement in The Arizona Republic, the launch event at the Scottsdale Fashion Square mall will include a performance by pop star Ashley Tisdale, and the first 1,000 visitors will receive concert tickets and a gift bag. Microsoft is also dishing up some grand opening special offers, with customers that buy new PCs receiving a free HP-D 1660 printer or a free copy of Office Home & Student edition.

ChannelWeb said that in July, Microsoft COO Kevin Turner said Microsoft would open retail stores "right next door" to Apple stores, but the Scottsdale location doesn't fit this description. However, Microsoft's Mission Viejo store will be located in the Shops At Mission Viejo mall, along with an Apple store location.

In addition to Windows 7 PCs, the Arizona store will also reportedly feature mobile phones running Microsoft software and Xbox 360 game consoles, as well as a massive 94-inch video screen, according to The Wall Street Journal.