In an official blog post today, Microsoft has revealed that as of December 2013, there are 83 Microsoft retail stores open across North America. These retail stores are a great way for Microsoft to expose their products to more people, offering potential customers the chance to look and play with various Microsoft products and services.
“It’s been another significant year for Microsoft retail stores, and we’re proud to continue to offer our customers the choice, value and service they have come to expect from our stores. Over the past 12 months, we opened 35 stores and now have 83 full-line and specialty stores open across North America. We have welcomed more than 362 million customers to our full-line, specialty and online Microsoft Store properties in more than 200 markets worldwide,” Microsoft stated in an official blog post.
“Microsoft is touting the Answer Desk as the heart of the Microsoft retail store.”
A typical Microsoft Store provides a showcase for the company’s latest Windows Phone 8 devices, Windows 8.1 devices, the Xbox One, Office 365, and much more. On top of that, Microsoft has provided free summer camps, first look at new products, midnight product launches for the Surface 2 and Xbox One, and even hands-on workshops.
Microsoft is touting the Answer Desk as the heart of the Microsoft retail store – providing customers with great customer service by engaging each customer about how technology can enable their full potential. These Answer Desks provide free services and support on all software and hardware regardless of brad or where it was purchased, according to Microsoft.
“In addition, our store associates remain committed to making a difference within their communities through collaboration with local community organizations, volunteer work and in-store workshops and events. Whether an organization is interested in tech training or a customer wants to celebrate their child’s birthday, our theater space remains free to use for the local community,” Microsoft adds.
As 2013 comes to a close, Microsoft promises more new retail stores for 2014. In fact, Microsoft has revealed the locations for the next three Microsoft Stores – Square One Shopping Centre, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada; Westfarms, Farmington, Connecticut; and Westfield Garden State Plaza, Paramus, New Jersey.
Is there a Microsoft Store close to you? Have you been to it? How was your experience? Let us know in the comments below.