Apple defied the critics by making its chain of branded retail stores a smashing success. Microsoft joined the party much later and only has two company stores to date.
But as Datamation reports, the company is getting ready to expand its retail presence which could eventually be a significant part of Microsoft’s marketing and sales effort.
Microsoft plans to open two more of its branded retail stores, which will bring the total number of outlets to four. Earlier this year Apple reported it had 283 Apple Stores.
“We can confirm that we plan to open Microsoft Stores in Denver, Colo. and San Diego, Calif.,” a Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) spokesperson said in an e-mail to InternetNews.com Thursday.
The two newest locations will join the two existing stores already up and running in Scottsdale, Ariz. at Scottsdale Fashion Square and Mission Viejo, Calif. at the Shops at Mission Viejo. Those first two stores opened last fall.
