Verizon Wireless to Open Springdale Smart Store

Verizon Wireless, the nation’s largest wireless carrier, is planning to open a new concept store at 4429 W. Sunset Ave. in Springdale.

The 6,110-SF building, recently acquired by Greenstone Properties of Atlanta for $1.85 million, is currently undergoing renovation. Guadalajara Bar & Grill, which closed Oct. 31, was the previous tenant.

Karen Schulz, a Verizon spokesperson, said the new store will open next spring. The company, she said, eventually plans to convert all 1,700 of its retail locations to the new “smart store” concept.

The store re-design is being done to give customers a more hands-on understanding of technology.

“We are very much looking forward to creating a new technology-driven retail experience with innovative choices and accessories that support today’s connected consumer for Arkansans,” Schulz said.

Areas within the store will be divided into “zones” based on fitness, music, games, home monitoring, business and more, all to reflect different ways wireless devices can be integrated into a customer’s life. Gone are walls between areas of different products. Schulz says the store concept feels much more open and visible, and instead of standing behind a counter, staff will carry tablet computers so they can handle inquiries and sales from the store floor.

“The new smart store makes shopping for wireless devices and services easier, convenient and more personalized by showcasing popular lifestyle areas in distinct zones throughout the store,” she said.

Schulz said the store will also have a designated area where Verizon specialists will lead free informational workshops so customers can better understand the many things that their smartphones and tablets can do.

Verizon’s neighbor in Springdale will be its most significant competitor — AT&T Inc. — which operates a retail store at 4489 W. Sunset Ave.