A corporate Verizon Store Is directly owned and managed by the Verizon company whereas an authorized retailer a privately-owned business licensed to sell Verizon products and provide Verizon services on behalf of Verizon.
So, what is the difference between a corporate Verizon store and an authorized retailer, and how can you tell them apart?
Let’s dive deeper into the Verizon stores’ puzzle and learn more about the differences between the corporate and authorized retailer stores.
Content
AppearanceOwnership PricingReturn and warranty policyRetailer Licensing policyBenefits of corporate storesBenefits of Authorised stores
Appearance
All Verizon outlets must have a Verizon banner or have their stores branded with the Verizon logo. Hence, the Verizon corporate stores and authorized retailer stores have similar appearances. The similarity makes it difficult to tell the stores apart based solely on their physical appearance. Nonetheless, if you want to find a corporate Verizon store near you, you can easily do that by using the store locator on the Verizon website.
Ownership
Ownership is the main distinguishing factor between corporate and authorized retailer stores.
Corporate stores are owned and managed by Verizon, whereas the authorized retailer stores are privately owned businesses that have been licensed to sell Verizon products and provide Verizon services.
Authorized retailer store proprietors have the freedom to run their businesses as they see fit but in adherence to Verizon’s terms and conditions.
Pricing
Prices for phones and accessories vary for authorized retail stores, while corporate Verizon stores have standardized pricing. Retailers may charge a fee to set up your phone or transfer data from your old phone to your new one.
Return and Warranty policy
Corporate Verizon stores have a 30-day return policy, and you can request a warranty extension on your device. In addition, if you bought your device at a corporate store, you can return it for a new one or get your money back at any corporate store, not necessarily the one you bought where you made your purchase.
Authorized retailers set their return policy guidelines. However, most retailers have a 14-day return policy and may not offer warranty extensions.
Note: For authorized retailers, you need to return your device to the store where you made your purchase for exchange or money back in accordance with their warranty policy.
Retailer Licensing Policy
Authorized retailers earn a significant commission for operating on behalf of Verizon. Nevertheless, to be accorded that privilege, they have to abide by guidelines set by Verizon.
These guidelines are as follows:
Authorized retailers must identify as Verizon affiliates using a banner or other Verizon branding tools.
Verizon is in charge of the customer service activations, billing processes, and the revenue collected as subscription fees.
Benefits of Corporate Verizon Stores
Aside from extending your warranty, you can return your device to any Corporate Verizon store since the return policy is constant. Corporate stores have standardized pricing on their products. Only Corporate stores can offer VIP upgrade discounts. Since your data is stored centrally at the Verizon company, your data is easily transferrable from your old Verizon device to your new Verizon device.
Benefits of Authorized Retailer Stores
Authorized retailers make Verizon products more accessible. Retailers provide a range of insurance policies and flexible financing options that may not be available at corporate stores.
Frequently asked questions
How do you tell a Verizon store from an authorized retailer store?
You cannot physically identify a corporate store as both stores look similar. Nonetheless, with the help of the Verizon store locator, you can effortlessly find a corporate Verizon store near you.
Which store is better?
Both Corporate stores and authorized retailers provide tailored solutions to suit the different needs. Hence, it is essential to know your needs before choosing whether to go to a corporate store or an authorized retailer. Getting your device or service from a corporate store is advisable if you are a new user.
Can I extend my warranty?
Yes, you can request a warranty extension, but only if you made your purchase at a corporate store. Authorized retailers do not offer warranty extensions.
Since corporate stores and authorized retailers are branded similarly, it is hard to differentiate the former from the latter. Verizon has addressed this issue by providing a Verizon store locator map on its official website.
Identifying your needs before selecting which Verizon store is a perfect fit for you is essential. You can learn more about Verizon’s terms and conditions by visiting the Verizon website.
