Samsung opens Beijing "Lifestyle Store" as part of renewed China push

Samsung seems to be taking up residence in a variety of habitats these days: Best Buy stores, Yodobashi Camera, and, of course, the courtroom. It looks as if China is the next locale, and things are going to get interesting, to say the least.

Whereas Samsung’s current “stores” are designed to showcase the Galaxy product lines and accessories, the new Galaxy Lifestyle Store in Beijing is a full-blown Samsung experience and a store in the truest sense of the word, aimed at providing visitors with everything they need.

The venue has five different areas: a Product Experience Zone, a Galaxy Lab, a Galaxy Accessories department, a Galaxy Music section, and a Concierge. Yes, a concierge. Staff are trained to provide information and assistance to groups of visitors sans any sales pitch.  Of particular interest is the Galaxy Lab, which offers Genius Bar-esque support: customer service, advice, and even system updates.

Looking at the pictures supplied by Samsung Tomorrow, the company went for a different look than simply “Apple Store clone”. The color choice is very interesting, with brown tables and a combination of blue walls and glass. The bookshelf is a very nice addition and gives an aura of sophistication; almost a scholarly approach to what is otherwise just gadgets, conjuring up a cooking school type scene.

Readers might be wondering why China is the first (and so far only) country to get this kind of extravagant showcase. Given the country’s gigantic population, and Samsung’s declining market presence as local rivals offer similar wares at lower prices, drastic measures are clearly necessary to create a truly premium image and show people what only Samsung can currently provide. (With respect to the Galaxy Note Edge or Galaxy Round, it will be a major blow indeed when China can produce a legitimate curved contender).