Why it makes sense for Amazon to open its own stores

Amazon is reportedly preparing to dip its toes into the brick-and-mortar retail market with its first boutique store in the Seattle area.

The company will focus on selling its Kindle line of tablets and e-readers and exclusive books from its Amazon Exclusives line. The store will be small and will also sell other high-end items as well as accessories such as cases, screen protectors, and USB adapters. Now some would wonder why Amazon would start paying rent on stores and getting into that market when it does so well online. But I think there are a number of compelling reasons to do so. The upside is that Amazon can let people get hands-on with their products, and they can provide a high level of customer service, especially for its Kindle line of tablets and e-readers.