Microsoft Closing Physical Stores, Will Offer Such Functions Remotely

Microsoft is closing its physical stores and will provide sales, training and support remotely, it said Friday. The company will “reimagine” spaces that serve customers, including Microsoft Experience Centers in New York; London; Redmond, Washington; and Sydney. Store closings will result in a pretax charge of $450 million, to be recorded in Q2. “Our sales have grown online as our product portfolio has evolved to largely digital offerings," said Microsoft Corporate Vice President David Porter. The company has been serving customers remotely over the past few months during the pandemic, he said. New online services include 1:1 video chat support, online tutorial videos and virtual workshops.