Wal-Mart Testing Home Services With Dell

By Alan Wolf -- TWICE, 8/4/2008

DALLAS — Wal-Mart was scheduled to begin testing a CE service model last month with Dell.

The pilot program is expected to be offered through "Solution Stations" located in 15 Dallas-area Wal-Mart stores, the retailer said. The Dell-managed effort will provide HDTV and home theater installation, computer repair, wireless solutions and other support services to help customers "build out their digital lifestyle infrastructure at home."

There are no present plans to expand the service outside of Dallas or to other area stores, Wal-Mart said.

"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 discounter said in a statement. "These Solution Stations will provide our Dallas-area customers with added services, repair, and consultation so that they can reach the best solution and value for their home entertainment technology needs."

Wal-Mart described Dell as "a trusted brand in service and computer electronics," and said it is pleased to have Dell join it in the venture pilot.

Dallas is a favorite test area for Wal-Mart, which also chose that market to launch its in-store pick-up option for online orders and to open an upscale prototype store replete with wood floors, $400 wine and premium-brand CE products. Dell is also headquartered in nearby Round Rock, Texas.

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