RadioShack stores chosen to boost Microsoft's Internet visibility

Microsoft has teamed up with RadioShack, the online and high-street reseller, in a move that will give the software giant greater visibility in over 7,000 prime locations in the US.

The five-year deal will see the alliance target consumers yet to be exposed to Microsoft, in order to offer them broadband Internet services.

A spokesperson for Microsoft said there were two main reasons why RadioShack was selected. Not only do they have a fully trained sales force of 25,000, but 94 per cent of their stores - which have over one million visitors per day - are located within five minutes of all US homes and business.

Labeled a 'store within a store', Microsoft's spokesperson said: "RadioShack is being trialed in Europe with the possible roll out into the continent in the future." He refused to say if they were currently speaking to any European outlets.