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Microsoft has announced the opening date for its first physical retail store in the UK, which will be located on Oxford Circus and covers 21,932 square feet over three floors.
The flagship London store will open to the general public on 11th July, 2019, where visitors will be able to test and experience the latest technology, products and services from Microsoft and its partners.
Interactive zones, surrounded by immersive video walls running throughout the store, will let the public get hands-on with Surface, Windows, Office, Xbox and PC gaming, HoloLens mixed-reality and more.
Designed to “build connections with the local community, customers and businesses”, Microsoft says its flagship store in London represents a “unique way to deliver on our mission to empower every person and organisation on the planet to achieve more”.
David Porter, Microsoft Store, said: “A flagship store in London has long been part of our vision for our physical and digital store presence. 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.”
One thing that’s particularly interesting about the store is its “Answer Desk” – a dedicated area for customers to get tech support, trainings, repairs and advice from trusted advisors on Microsoft products and services. And products don’t have to have been bought from the store, or even made by Microsoft. No matter where the device was purchased, the brand or the operating system, the Answer Desk will offer their support.
“This new flagship store builds upon Microsoft’s significant track record of investment in the UK,” said 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.”
There will also be a Community Theatre – a space for tech, coding and STEM learning. It will run free, year-round workshops and programmes for customers.
John Carter, newly appointed Store Manager for the flagship Microsoft Store in London, said: “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.”
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