CHICAGO, Nov. 15, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Verizon Wireless unveiled its newest Destination Store on Chicago's Magnificent Mile (840 N. Michigan Ave.), with Jennifer Hudson attending as the store's first customer. At 10,000 square feet of retail space, it is the company's largest store.

Verizon's Destination Store spotlights technology through interactive "Lifestyle Zones" where shoppers can learn about and experience wireless technology in action. Each Zone depicts ways technology can be incorporated into busy lifestyles. These Zones include Amplify It, Customize It, Get Fit, Have Fun, Home and on the Go, and Anywhere Business.

"We are excited to make this new retail experience available to Chicago residents and visitors, ensuring customers can discover all that wireless technology can do to enhance their lifestyles," said Chris Baron, Midwest Area President for Verizon Wireless. "This new store is truly a landmark destination and we are honored to have it serve as the perfect gateway to Chicago's ultimate shopping experience."

As part of the grand opening celebration Verizon made a $250,000 donation to WINGS Metro. The grant was made possible through the company's HopeLine® program, which provides funds and support to domestic violence prevention and service programs throughout the country.

"Domestic violence can be a silent epidemic and through our HopeLine program we are able to provide support to organizations helping those in need," said Brian Pascoe, president, Verizon Wireless Illinois/Wisconsin Region. "As we open our doors to our new Destination Store, we found this to be a perfect opportunity to give something back to the Chicago community. And what better way to show our support of the city than by helping others in need."

To further extend its support and involve holiday shoppers, Verizon also announced it will provide additional funding to WINGS through an in-store and social giving program. From November 15 – December 1, Verizon will donate an additional $5 to WINGS for every new line activated at the Michigan Avenue Destination Store. Additionally, for every message of hope for victims of domestic violence posted on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram using the hashtag #VoicesHavePower, Verizon will donate an additional $1 to WINGS. The program will culminate in a final donation to be provided on "Giving Tuesday," December 2.

Technology is constantly evolving, and so is the retail experience. Each lifestyle zone is staffed by highly trained specialists who will demonstrate applications, gadgets and gear with a goal of enhancing each visitor's wireless life. Customers can also take advantage of a station dedicated to learning more about technology through Wireless Workshops.

"We want customers to feel empowered to explore technology and try things they may not have known existed," said Pascoe. "We are breaking new ground here in Chicago and putting the customer at the center of all we do. They will definitely experience a difference."

Located at 840 N. Michigan Avenue, the store will offer extended hours for holiday shopping through December 23 (hours are listed at Verizon.com/magmile). Thereafter, standard operating hours will be Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Verizon Wireless operates the nation's largest and most reliable 4G LTE network.  As the largest wireless company in the U.S., Verizon Wireless serves 106.2 million retail customers, including 100.1million retail postpaid customers.  Verizon Wireless is wholly owned by Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ).  For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com.  For the latest news and updates about Verizon Wireless, visit our News Center at http://www.verizonwireless.com/news or follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/VZWNews. 

SOURCE Verizon Wireless