MCV/DEVELOP News, events, research and jobs from the games industry
Microsoft has announced its new flagship Microsoft Store in London will open on July 11th, 2019. The first store of its kind in the UK, the premises – located in London’s Oxford Circus – boasts 21,932 square feet over three floors and has been “designed to build connections with the local community, customers and businesses”.
John Carter, the newly appointed Store Manager for the flagship Microsoft Store in London, said via a press statement: “This will be more than just a store. Customers will have the chance to explore and get hands-on with technology. We’ve got a passionate group of store associates ready to bring the experience of tech alive for customers. Unique to any job in retail, there will be many ways for us to give back to our communities, help them build connections and grow.”
Not only will visitors be able to “get hands-on” with Surface, Windows, Office, Xbox and PC gaming, HoloLens mixed-reality and more, there will also be “interactive zones, surrounded by immersive video walls running throughout the store” and an “Answer Desk” system – seemingly similar to Apple’s Genius Bar – that offers dedicated tech support and repairs regardless of where the device was purchased, the brand, or its operating system. A Community Theatre and space for tech, coding and STEM learning will also provide free, year-round workshops and programmes for customers.
“A flagship store in London has long been part of our vision for our physical and digital store presence,” said David Porter, from Microsoft Store. “This opening represents another step in our journey to meet our customers – from consumers to businesses – wherever they are and deepen our connection with them. London is one of the world’s most exciting shopping destinations, and we look forward to empowering customers to explore all that is possible with Microsoft.”
“This new flagship store builds upon Microsoft’s significant track record of investment in the UK,” added Cindy Rose, Microsoft UK. “More importantly, located in the heart of central London it will serve as a vibrant hub – for both visitors to our great city as well as a variety of different local communities – to come and play, learn, create and discover.”
The store joins other flagship locations including New York and Sydney.
