Microsoft launched its colossal store in Times Square on October 25 last year to massive crowd. The store was positioned as the keystone location for the company’s launch of Windows 8, Windows RT and Surface line of tablets.
Now, however, it seems that this location is closing shop.
Admittedly, though when Redmond set this store up by hiring 80 employees, it did say that this intended as a temporary “holiday store”, and it may continue as a permanent location after the holiday season.
But that is not to be the case now. According to ZDNet, the Microsoft Store at NYC Times Square is indeed set for a shut down. Microsoft sent a statement to the website saying:
“The location was intended to support holiday sales of Microsoft Surface and Windows 8, and continues to be an important market for us moving forward. Customers in the New York area can continue to experience the best of Microsoft products and the same excellent choice, value and service at our specialty store located in the Shops at Columbus Circle or any of our nine full line and specialty locations in the tri-state area.”
The timing of this shutdown seems a little peculiar, considering the company is preparing to launch its newest tablet, Surface with Windows 8 Pro in less than two weeks’ time.
While it can only be imagined how much rent a place like costs, the prime location of this store would have made it a pretty valuable form of advertising.
Still, as they say one door closes another opens — Microsoft has already outlined its plans of opening up several new stores not just in North America but word is that the company is looking to expand its retail reach to Europe as well later this year.
What’s your take on this? Are 3 months enough, or should Microsoft have waited a little more before pulling the plug? Particularly now with the upcoming launch of Surface Pro! Sound off below.
