Sony Ericsson opens store in central London

Its not just Nokia (NYSE: NOK) anymore the only handset manufacturer with its stores. Sony Ericsson (NYSE: SNE) announced plans to open its first dedicated store in central London enabling consumers to touch and try Sony Ericsson products, learn more about new features and applications first-hand in a relaxed, fun environment. The store, which will open at the end of November, will be located in Kensington High Street, one of London’s prime retail locations.

The new store will provide consumers with a warm and inviting environment where they can come to interact with the Sony Ericsson brand, ask questions and feel comfortable to experiment with new products, services and applications. Specially trained expert staff will be on hand to assist visitors who will also be able to purchase new Sony Ericsson phones, accessories and PC cards connected to a wide range of operator networks as part of a contract, prepay or upgrade package, thanks to a cooperation agreement with Carphone Warehouse who will operate and manage the store.

At street level, 7,300 feet will be dedicated to creating a best-in-class consumer experience bringing all Sony Ericsson’s products to life through demonstrations showcasing the product line-up’s music, imaging, gaming and connectivity capabilities. Emphasis will be placed on visitors to the store gaining hands-on experience with the products. Special customized events and promotions will target different categories of phones users, from established Sony Ericsson fans to potential new customers who have yet to experience the Sony Ericsson brand.

The Sony Ericsson store in London will reflect the new brand elements in announced in conjunction with the company’s 5th anniversary celebrations, and be the first of a number of similar retail spaces offering a fully Sony Ericsson branded experience in key cities throughout the world.