Rumor: Best Buy Giving iPads To Associates?
Posted 03/05/2011 at 12:16pm
| by Matthew Tilmann
It has been well documented that the iPad is starting to come into its own as a power player within the corporate world. As businesses start to become more familiar with the "magical" device, and finding ways to integrate its use into everyday functions, one major Apple partner could be on the verge of implementing it onto their sales floors for associates to utilize.
Forbes is reporting that it appears likely the tech superstore will distribute iPads to each of its on-floor sales associates. Of course, as the source points out, it would only seem to be a natural match made in heaven, as Best Buy has kept the iPad in stock since the release in 2010. The iPad 2 is also expected to be released into stores on March 11.
Best Buy opted to decline confirmation of the rumor, but interestingly enough, they also failed to deny it. A company spokesman mentioned to Forbes that it was thinking of its "Connected Stores" pilot which kicked off last November in Las Vegas and Pittsburgh. The stores were remodeled around tables where customers would be able to get some hands-on time with devices, similar to Apple's method. Best Buy associates were then given various mobile devices like iPads, iPod touches and Samsung Galaxy Tabs to educate consumers as well as process purchases.
The overall goal of the Connected Stores initiative is to make Best Buy shops more alluring destinations as well as encourage consumers to make purchases of devices through making the shopping experience both interactive and informative.
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