Hero Bm
Image: Microsoft

Microsoft has revealed that it will be closing its Microsoft Store physical locations as part of a strategic change in its retail operations. The company announced this earlier today on its official website.

According to the statement, retail team members will "continue to serve customers from Microsoft corporate facilities and remotely providing sales, training, and support." A Microsoft spokesperson has reportedly told CNBC that all of its employees will have the opportunity to stay with the company.

Microsoft says it will continue to invest in its digital storefronts on Microsoft.com, Xbox and Windows, which reach more than 1.2 billion people every month in 190 markets. It will also "reimagine spaces" that serve all customers, such as operating Microsoft Experience Centers in London, NYC, Sydney and Redmond.

Here's a bit of what Microsoft Corporate Vice President David Porter had to say about the announcement:

“It is a new day for how Microsoft Store team members will serve all customers... We are energized about the opportunity to innovate in how we engage with all customers, maximize our talent for greatest impact, and most importantly help our valued customers achieve more.”

What do you make of this news? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

[source news.microsoft.com, via cnbc.com]