The New York Times is reporting today that Disney is going to overhaul it's approach to retail at the mall by creating a theme park type of experience - and here's the best part: They are going to be guided by Steve Jobs!
We all know what the Apple stores are. They are places of genius and magic where everything is just cool. From the theater to the genius bar to the displays to the glass staircase - it's one of those places you want to check out no matter what part of the world you are in.
Now Disney stores on the other hand? Meh. I mean, I remember when they first opened and it was all cool to look around and check out the stuffed animals. But now? It's a kids store. It's not some place that I try to go, although it won't ruin my day if I walk in. Not exactly a glowing endorsement, right?
But a Disney store that is like an Apple Store? Hold on!
I'm sitting here just trying to think what this store would look like and the images are going by so fast that I'm getting dizzy. I mean, think about it ... the displays you could have controlled by Apple computers and devices of things like Up and Cars and, well, just about any Disney movie -- I'm thinking Disney World type of experience.Epcot Center is one of my favorite places anywhere. I used to wonder why Florida is the only place where you can enjoy it. I don't expect that to change anytime soon, but what if there was some sort of tie or some sort of similar concept in major cities around the world? It would not only be amazing for Disney and Apple, but think of what cities will do to get a piece of that in their backyard? I think they'd do just about anything.
I can think of a million places in Chicago where such a concept would not only work, but would be destination for millions of residents, tourists - singles, families, couples - whatever. And granted - I may be taking this a little far. Right now, the talk is a store makeover, but we all know that nothing Steve Jobs thinks about is small.
Please click on the link and read the New York Times story for a true taste of what this experience could be. It's not even open yet and I'm excited. The current Disney store and Apple store in Chicago are a block apart! I say just buy the block and rebuild it!
Whistle while I work ... da da da da da da da. Just whistle ...
What do you think? You feeling the Disney-Apple love? Let me know in the comments or on Twitter.
Thanks for calling.
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