Expanded distribution of iPad 2 COULD BE Apple's key to success

 Expanded distribution of iPad 2 could be Apple's key to success

"Exploring alternative retail partners like Kohl's or Bed Bath & Beyond for the next-generation iPad could give Apple another advantage over its competitors in the booming tablet market.

Stephen Baker, vice president of industry analysis with the NPD Group, wrote about the anticipated launch of the second-generation iPad on his company's official blog on Tuesday. He said he believes distribution and availability of the touchscreen tablet will be an even more important factor than technical specifications for the next-generation device.

"As Apple talks more about small businesses and the iPad opportunity in enterprise it would be great if distribution focus was expanded to include more business-oriented channels like the office stores and the DMRs, such as PC Connection and Insight," he wrote. "Those chains and resellers offer Apple real chances to gain incremental volume versus shoveling a couple more units through carrier stores or adding another Web site."