Microsoft to launch Oxford Circus flagship in July

The tech giant will launch its flagship 22,000 sq ft store in London’s Oxford Circus on July 11.

The store will cover three floors, providing an interactive space for shoppers to test and experience Microsoft’s latest technology, products and services.

Microsoft said the store will house “interactive zones surrounded by immersive video walls… designed to build connections with the local community, customers and businesses”.

It will also feature an ‘Answer Desk’, where customers can get tech support, repairs, training and advice from specialist staff, similar to Apple’s ‘Genius Bar’.

A ‘Community Theatre’ will put on free workshops all year round for visitors to learn about tech, coding and STEM subjects – science, technology, engineering and maths.

The launch of the store, in the former United Colors of Benneton unit at 255-259 Regent Street, is one of the most eagerly awaited openings in the West End for years.

It comes almost two years since Retail Week exclusively revealed that Microsoft had agreed terms on a 10-year lease with property owner the Crown Estate.

The deal brought to an end Microsoft’s lengthy search for a UK flagship as it bids to combine its online business with a bricks-and-mortar presence in key cities across the globe.

Microsoft already has flagships in New York and Sydney, in addition to smaller stores across the US, Canada and Puerto Rico. It sells online in 190 countries.

Microsoft Stores corporate vice president David Porter 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.”