Time Warner Cable is opening a new type of customer-care center in Cary.
The company's retail outlets previously were places to pay bills or swap equipment such as cable boxes. But the new stores include staff who can demonstrate various products and services.
The stores are part of a broader push by the telecommunications company to sell more services such as phone and Internet packages. The strategy comes as Time Warner faces increasing competition for its core cable-TV service from new rivals such as AT&T and Verizon.
"You've got people out there who may not be technology savvy, who may need to see something in person," said spokeswoman Melissa Buscher. "It's also a way to showcase our new products."
For example, the company recently started a "Start Over" service, which allows digital cable customers to restart some shows if they missed the beginning.
The company also has opened new retail centers in Clayton and Wilson. An existing center on Atlantic Avenue in Raleigh is scheduled to be refurbished by early next year.
The 1,750 square-foot Cary center is located in the Maynard Crossing Shopping Center, 1307 N. Maynard Road. There will be a grand opening party on Saturday from Noon to 2 p.m., with face painting and prizes.
Assistant Business Editor Alan M. Wolf joined the N&O in 1999 covering the business of health care. He became an editor in 2001, and helps oversee the paper's daily business coverage and Sunday Work&Money section. He lives in Clayton with his wife and two children. Reach him at 919-829-4572 or 
