Launching a branded store is kind of a no-brainer today. All the big brands do it and I am a big fan of it. Brand Marketing & Reputation management are just the way to go these days. Especially when you are in the tech space (just ask Google).

Today I saw that Microsoft finally made the move to launch their own stores and promote their products, among others the Zune.  They also announced that these stores will sometimes open in close proximity to Apple’s store. Let’s say it friendly: This can go very ugly, especially when you think about the deep pockets that Microsoft has.

The next black Friday we might see the Iphone vs. Zune Phone war….or the Mac vs. PC fight right on the street.
Overall a smart move by Microsoft. Since Circuit City folded and a bunch of online retailers own the laptop business, Microsoft
needs to diversify their sales channels. Really funny to see the M$ giant get back on it’s feet.

But let’s see how this will turn out. Windows 7 better be good…or MS will get owned again.