Microsoft is planning to do what Apple did successfully and what Dell and Gateway failed to do:
launch a retail store chain. The company announced on Thursday that they have hired a 25 year veteran of Wal Mart to lead the creation of a series of Microsoft branded retail stores. Microsoft did not specify how many stores will be opened, and released no details on which of its products the stores would carry. Many of Microsoft's chief rivals already run their own retail outlets, including Apple, Sony and Nintendo.