The Evolution of Waiting Lines

My first waiting line was in 2001 for store #9. Back then, it was all enthusiasm, amazement and excitement. It’s pretty much been the same thing for each new store grand opening. Even the product launch waiting lines were driven by loyalty to Apple and its products, and not so much by publicity. But I guess it’s inevitable, especially in New York. First, a serial publicity hound (who I routinely don’t name) has taken over the task of being first-in-line for Fifth Avenue events. He appeared for the iPhone, the iPad and now the iPhone 4 events, never really intending to purchase one of the new products, and not being an Apple devotee. But everything has a purpose. For the iPhone 4 event, electronics recycler Gazelle has is paying him $250 a day to sit in line wearing their logo apparel and publicize the company. I think they’re also buying him a new iPhone. Not a bad idea, really, although they could have picked anyone off the street to perform the same task. At last look, Gazelle was paying $197 for an iPhone 3GS (plus 10% if you take it in Amazon.com credit), which is a great deal if you buy the 16 Gb version of the iPhone 4. Well, as long as everyone has fun in New York City, then it’s all good.