Microsoft Malaysia announced the launch of its first authorised reseller store in Malaysia situated in Suria KLCC, making it the first one in Asia Pacific region. The rebranded store was previously a Nokia Store and is currently managed by Hello Station.
The software giant said the newly launched Microsoft Authorized Reseller Store in Malaysia will offer a range of Microsoft products, including Windows Phones, feature phones, Surface devices as well as Windows, Microsoft Office 365 and more. The store will offer an extensive line-up of Microsoft as well as third-party accessories to cater to different needs of Malaysian customers. The Microsoft Store will also have a Live Experience Table to showcase how users can enjoy seamless integration across multiple screens through Microsoft’s devices, apps and services.
Another 39 retail outlets in Malaysia, including Nokia Stores, will also be transformed by end of 2015.
“Opening the first Microsoft Authorized Reseller store is a significant development for our business locally. It enables us to showcase the world class innovation that you have come to expect from Microsoft and be a space where Malaysians can visit and learn how to make the most of Microsoft technology,” said Rukmani Subramanian, Chief Marketing & Operations Officer, Microsoft Malaysia. “With this store, we are not only improving the shopping experience, but more importantly showcasing our innovation agenda – how Microsoft technologies can empower people to make most of those moments that truly matter, whether you’re on the go, at work, or spending time with loved ones, on virtually any device.”
“This very first retail transition from a Nokia branded store to Microsoft in Malaysia is a big leap for the Microsoft brand in terms of scaling up of our retail foot print and widens the ranging of Microsoft products and services,” said Bruce Howe, General Manager, Microsoft Mobile Devices Sales for Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei. “With the launch of our dedicated store, we are one step closer in reaching out to millions of new customers beyond just phones, enabling people to thrive in a mobile-first, cloud-first world by empowering them to get more done, wherever they need to and on any device.”
Globally, more than 15000 retail outlets around the world will be getting a makeover. Out of these, more than 3000 of the retail outlets will get a complete makeover, with new furniture and signage to showcase products and services. The rest will be refreshed, with existing furniture being refurbished to the Microsoft branding with new signage.
Based on an extensive research, the Microsoft Store was designed to create an aesthetic feel aligned with its core brand values, the company said. Taking into account the practicalities, device security, material considerations and design fixtures, the store was created to provide a warm and friendly environment. Using a harmonious mix of materials and colours, robust enough to stand the rigours of physical retail, the Microsoft store provides a bold and rich retail customer experience.
With the new look, Microsoft will also introduce a new nomenclature for the retail outlets. The exclusively branded retail stores will be known as ‘Microsoft Authorized Reseller stores’, while the value and experience stores will be known as ‘Microsoft Mobile Reseller stores’.
