Ok, I'm really happy.  Microsoft took the wraps off its brand new tablet called Surface and it's cool. Microsoft has a long history of waiting to see how the market shapes up before they jump in. This time, in my opinion, it seems to have really paid off.  The Surface is sexy hot and functional.  It's going to be available in a "Metro-only" version of Windows 8 and a Windows 8 Pro which will have Metro, as well as the more familiar desktop look of Windows with a Start bar and home screen icons. It has the magnetic case that many have for the iPad but the coolest part is the cover is a super-thin keyboard - available in colors.  I'm probably going to get orange. 

So if I sound like I'm gushing, I am.  Those of us in commercial real estate have adopted iPads and even Android tablets like no other hardware or software since the PC.  And the tablets to date have really just been "viewing" machines.  Because of how we work, being in a familiar business environment that easily lets us input rather than just enjoy the output is big.

Now don't get me wrong, there are critics.  The critics say that it's a copycat product and Apple and the iPad is THE way to go and will continue to lead.  I say it's like many real estate development projects; the second or third owner is the one who gets it right and makes the most money.  Critics say it's too late for Microsoft to capture enough market share.  Maybe, maybe not.  I don't care.  They'll capture enough to make it a reliable purchase.  I base that on the fact that commercial real estate and industries like ours are ripe for the picking.  Think about it.  There are 1.25 billion - yep, billion with a "B" Windows PCs.  Many of you are in sales so I know you can see what that base does to a capture rate.  And their existing sales channel is huge.  The leverage is huge.  The fact that Surface is more of a business machine is the differentiator we all look for when competing.  Watch this and tell me what you think.

So there you have it.  That's some marketing piece.  There is a problem; it's likely not coming out until near Christmas so I'm just going to ask Santa for one.  I sure wish there was a Christmas in July sale.  How about you?

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Burlington Brands operates 10 locations throughout AL, NC, NV, SC and TN. The apparel stores, offering men's and women's apparel, occupy spaces of 5,000 sq.ft. in outlet centers. Limited growth opportunities are sought throughout the existing markets during the coming 18 months. For more information, contact Blake Wagner, Burlington Brands, PO Box 1023, Burlington, NC 27215