A new report has claimed that Microsoft is aiming to have its own store on Fifth Avenue in New York City. Apparently, this brand new Microsoft store is expected to sit just a few blocks away from Apple's sexy looking cube store.
The new store would be the latest addition to the company's 50 retail stores already established in the United States. However, we're not certain if sitting close to Apple would be a good thing for Microsoft, unless the company is working on some cool unannounced products in the lab.
If Microsoft gets what it wants, the software giant could have its new store at 677 Fifth Ave, which is close to 53rd Street. This particular area was once occupied by luxury fashion company Fendi, which has now moved to Madison Avenue. Furthermore, we understand the area is two-story and 8,700-square-foot, big enough for Microsoft and its ever growing product line.
"For Microsoft to land on Fifth Avenue just a few blocks from Apple would certainly be interesting," said retail broker Faith Hope Consolo. "It would be very dramatic."
If Microsoft should ever get its wish, the company could likely pay up to $30 million annually as rent on Fifth Avenue can go as high as $3,500 per square foot. That shouldn't be a problem for Microsoft as long as the store is capable of paying for itself.
With the Xbox One finally at the same price point as the PlayStation 4 and Windows 9 on its way, this might be the perfect time for the company to increase the amount of retail stores it has in the United States.
Back in 2012, Microsoft set up a small store in Time Square, but it was just for the holidays. Now after nearly two years, Microsoft is looking to set up a permanent home in New York City close to the Apple store.
At the moment, only time will tell if Microsoft's choice to follow Apple by building out its own retail store is a good idea. This works for Apple because the company has that cool factor, something Microsoft is seriously lacking.
