Two Giants Team Up with Computer Repair & Service Initiative
Computer giant Dell is testing a computer repair and installation service for products sold in Dallas-area Wal-Mart stores, the chain reports.
Up to 15 "Solution Stations" within Wal-Mart stores will provide HDTV and home theater installation, as well as computer repair, wireless support and more, according to Wal-Mart, the nation's largest retailer from Bentonville, Ark.
"For Wal-Mart, the program provides an opportunity for us to understand more about what our customers need and expect in home installation and technology services, within a specific market," the company said in a statement.
"These Solution Stations will provide our customers with added computer services, repair, network support and IT consulting so that they can reach the best solution and value for their home technology needs."
Wal-Mart's initiative could be its answer to services offered by several competitors, such as Best Buy's Geek Squad and Circuit City's Firedog.
Wal-Mart said there are no plans to expand the service... yet. The retail giant started selling Dell PCs and notebooks in 2007, and this is believed to be the first time the two companies have combined on a services offering.
A Dell spokesman said the computer repair and services pilot program will include performing services on non-Dell devices too.
As always, we'd approach this with caution - or not at all. A smaller, local and independent Ft. Lauderdale computer repair provider will almost always blow away the bigger-scale competition in terms of quality and price.
