fred1

Hank2.0 said:

Microsoft tried and failed...Dell tried and failed...now Amazon tried and failed. Apple succeeded. Why? I don't know. Maybe because Steve Jobs made Apple a business and a cult. Generally speaking, I think most PC owners see their computers and cell phones as tools. No particular loyalty to the brand. The Dell dies; no problem, Lenovo is having a sale. But there are Apple owners (cough, cough) who see their Macs and iPhones as gifts from the gods. Entrance to an Apple store has the solemnity second only to that of a medieval cathedral...without the candles. Permission to enter is required beforehand though penitents may wait before the doors in the hope a "Genius" has an opening. New Mac or iPhone owners walk out with a glow of happiness. Ok, maybe I exaggerate...just a bit. But I think there's enough truth to explain why Microsoft tried and failed...Dell tried and failed...Amazon tried and failed.

I love the comparison of Apple stores (oops, “Stores”) to sacred spaces. There is definitely a metaphysical aspect to them. We may not see the long lines outside the stores for new products anymore, but the sense is still there of something mystical/magical/supernatural, whatever you want to call it. Apple has definitely achieved what every retailer wants: to have people see a visit to a store as so much more than just a way to buy something. Maybe the other companies failed because everyone knew deep down that their approach was just an attempt to copy the Apple Store. False divinities. 

lkrupp said:

Went into an Amazon store in Phoenix, AZ as a curiosity. i was not all that impressed.

auxio said:

The thief really should come clean