Apple Store Doncaster - Kids eat for free

David Heath
Saturday, 23 May 2009 16:50

Opinion and Analysis

In this area, a low table was set up for children to enjoy a number of computers at their own level – suitable child-friendly software was installed for them to experiment with.

Further to this, the Doncaster Apple Store (and I assume others) are offering a "Field Trip."  This is the opportunity for school-sponsored groups of up to 12 students, along with their teacher to come into the store and, working with the in-store trainers and specialists, make use of the facilities to craft any project of their choosing.  This might be as simple as word-processing tasks or as complex as video post-production.

Commenting on her experience of demographics at the Chadstone store (where she was previously based), store manager Simone observed that "around 50% of purchasers are new Mac owners."  She also stressed that the intention of the store was for "building relationships so they [the customers] come back and buy the technology."

A major focus of the store is free (or very cheap) access to learning.  Regular free seminars are held in-store (bookings via the website, also for $129/year customers can access 1-on-1 training on topics of their choosing for an entire year; there is a limit of 1 session per week for this service.

As a very long-time user of Microsoft platforms, this writer can see very clearly the attraction of the Mac with the entire supporting infrastructure provided by stores such as this.

I wish them success.