02.13.2009 — Microsoft is following Apple’s lead by announcing it will launch retail purchase stores worldwide.

The company made the announcement as part of hiring former DreamWorks Animation and Wal-Mart exec David Porter as its new corporate vice president of retail stores.

Defining the time frame, locations and specifics for planned Microsoft-branded retail stores will be Porter’s first order of business, according to the company.

The purpose of opening these stores is to create deeper engagement with consumers and continue to learn firsthand about what they want and how they buy.

Porter will work with leaders of existing retail programs in Microsoft’s Entertainment and Devices Division.

Slashgear notes that Microsoft had a retail presence that closed in a San Francisco in 2001.