Sony chose Virgin Megastores to lead UK PS3 launch

It would be remembered that back in early January, London-based retail chain HMV was rumored to host the PlayStation 3 (PS3) launch in Europe. We don’t know if it was just a rumor or the infamous PS3-PSP deal got in the way, but Sony is now announcing that it has officially chosen rival retail store Virgin Megastores to lead in the PS3 launch.

The core of the launch on March 23 will be conducted at Virgin’s flagship Oxford Street store and several licensed merchandise and incentives will be given away to early birds grabbing their new shiny units. Stephen Lynn, Senior Promotions and PR Manager for Virgin, is very proud with the partnership.

The PS3 is without a doubt one of the most anticipated console launches ever so it is very exciting to be able to offer our customers the complete Sony experience at launch. We can’t go into too much detail in terms of what we have planned, as we are currently in a period of consultation with the authorities. Needless to say though, the experience and safety of our customers will come first and it will be an amazing launch.

Likewise, Sony Computer Entertainment UK (SCE UK) Managing Director Ray Maguire will not divulge anything as of now but highlighted that the safety of fans is their main priority. We hate to bring this up but it will be remembered that the PS3 launch in U.S. was marred with violence. And Maguire is aware of this.

We are well aware how patient and loyal our customers have been waiting for PS3 to arrive and fully intend to reward them with the launch they deserve. Plans are already well underway and we are working with local authorities to ensure we deliver the best console launch ever.

It would be remembered that back in early January, London-based retail chain HMV was rumored to host the PlayStation 3 (PS3) launch in Europe. We don’t know if it was just a rumor or the infamous PS3-PSP deal got in the way, but Sony is now announcing that it has officially chosen rival retail store Virgin Megastores to lead in the PS3 launch.

The core of the launch on March 23 will be conducted at Virgin’s flagship Oxford Street store and several licensed merchandise and incentives will be given away to early birds grabbing their new shiny units. Stephen Lynn, Senior Promotions and PR Manager for Virgin, is very proud with the partnership.

The PS3 is without a doubt one of the most anticipated console launches ever so it is very exciting to be able to offer our customers the complete Sony experience at launch. We can’t go into too much detail in terms of what we have planned, as we are currently in a period of consultation with the authorities. Needless to say though, the experience and safety of our customers will come first and it will be an amazing launch.

Likewise, Sony Computer Entertainment UK (SCE UK) Managing Director Ray Maguire will not divulge anything as of now but highlighted that the safety of fans is their main priority. We hate to bring this up but it will be remembered that the PS3 launch in U.S. was marred with violence. And Maguire is aware of this.

We are well aware how patient and loyal our customers have been waiting for PS3 to arrive and fully intend to reward them with the launch they deserve. Plans are already well underway and we are working with local authorities to ensure we deliver the best console launch ever.