Boost Mobile hits the street with branded retail outlets

Boost Mobile is hoping to boost sales with a line of new retail stores.
The Sprint Nextel Corp. division opened outlets in Hialeah, Fla., Huntington, Calif., and Houston, offering customers and would-be customers an opportunity to explore Boost’s offerings “in a hands-on, contemporary environment.” The move follows similar efforts by mobile virtual network operators Helio and Virgin Mobile U.K. to launch high-profile – if costly – brick-and-mortar storefronts to lure users and raise brand awareness.
The outlets are “much more than just retail spots aimed at attracting customers; the stores are centers for community connection,” said Michael Lanzon, Boost’s VP of sales and marketing. “Becoming an integral part of these neighborhoods is a priority for Boost, and we are actively engaging local civic officials and giving back to charities in the communities where our stores are located.”