Microsoft has formally begun the transition of Nokia-branded retail outlets, with the first ever Microsoft Priority Reseller Store in the world opening in India in Gurgaon, a New Delhi suburb.
The Ambience Mall rebranded store was unveiled by Chris Weber, Corporate Vice President, Mobile Device Sales at Microsoft.
India is the first country to roll out the new look. Beginning with the first launch, the transition will be made across a total of 8,872 stores and 119 Care centers by the end of June 2015. Out of the total number in India, 441 outlets will get a completely new design while the remaining stores will be refreshed by end of June 2015.
Globally, a total of 15,684 retail outlets and 324 Care centers will get a makeover. Again, 3,287 of these will get a complete makeover with new furniture and signage to showcase products and services while the rest will be refreshed to the Microsoft branding with new signage.
With the new look, Microsoft has also introduced a new nomenclature for retail outlets. The branded retail stores will be called 'Microsoft Priority Reseller stores', while the value and experience stores will be known as 'Microsoft Mobile Reseller stores'. Microsoft will continue to honor existing Nokia device warranties, and all existing Nokia and Lumia devices will continue to be serviced through Care centers.
Microsoft intends to improve customers' shopping experience and highlight the connected devices experience with clear signage and improved navigation within the redesigned stores. The retail transition marks the beginning of the new era for the current Nokia stores and a big leap for the Microsoft brand in terms of scaling it up its retail footprint.
