Visited the mall this weekend for the first time in a long time. Even though we went on a specific mission I wanted to make time to visit the Apple store to spread some drool around. I hadn't had a chance to see the new iMac or the new iPod. These are good things. What strikes me is how different it feels to browse and shop in an Apple store vs any other store that sells computers.

It's simple really - the coolness of the well designed products in a well designed experience(store) is a strong combination. It's probably why Apple started their successful retail stores in the first place. They realized that a retail environment and thus experience that they could not design and control only subtracted from the appeal of their products. Cool Apple products languishing on unkempt dust covered shelves of the stinky "warehouse chic" big box retailers was hardly a plus for the brand. Clean, bright, well staffed,nice smelling and well organized add up to a winning experience.

Interestingly, I headed for the Apple store as my lady friend headed for the candle store. Two remarkably different experiences worth having for each of us.

Is your store a great experience? Do the stores your products are sold in provide an appropriate experience? Something to think about.

Comments

[mike]

I myself enjoy a trip to the apple store. Only problem I have is I am usually depressed when I leave becasue I want to buy everything. Though my last visit with my wife came without the usual depression. I walked away with a new imac.
best
m