The first Microsoft Flagship Store outside of North America is set to open its doors in Sydney at midday on Thursday November 12.

 Microsoft’s company mission is to help people achieve more in their lives. With each store opening, Microsoft aims to deliver a positive impact on the communities in which it operates by providing access to technology as well as promoting STEM learning and youth education.  In celebration of the new flagship location at Westfield Sydney, Microsoft will donate more than US$2 million in software and technology grants to honor the great work of several not-for-profit community groups making difference in Sydney, and across Australia.

A number of complimentary workshops and seminars, will also be open to members of the community on level 2 of the store in the weeks that follow the grand opening. These events will include a digital workshop for girls aged 14-18 to introduce them to the world of possibility with coding and potential career paths, a creative coding academy aimed at secondary school students during school holidays and a seminar aimed at parents to equip them with the knowledge they need when it comes to online security and safety for children. 

To mark Microsoft’s commitment to the community on launch day, the first customers to visit the flagship store on November 12 will be rewarded with free access to an exclusive concert with international artist, Jessie J, who will be supported by, The Voice Australia 2015 winner, Ellie Drennan.

 The first 750 customers who visit the store on opening day will receive two complimentary tickets to the community concert which will be held at 7 PM on Thursday November 12 at the iconic State Theatre, on Market Street, Sydney.

The grand opening festivities, which will commence at 11.30 AM, will also include giveaways, unique offers on Surface, a wide selection of Xbox One console bundles as well as the opportunity to experience new innovations with the official launch of Surface Pro 4 and Surface Book.

 Customers are invited to line up as early as Wednesday, November 11 at 10:00 PM at the entry to Westfield Sydney on Pitt Street Mall. Details about the event are available on the Facebook page and www.microsoftstore.com/Sydney

 Microsoft at Westfield Sydney, on Pitt Street Mall, will be a cutting-edge space that features the latest technologies from Microsoft and its partners, the highly-anticipated Answer Desk – a one-stop shop for technical questions, troubleshooting and repairs regardless of device or where it was purchased and the unique Community Theatre where members of the community can immerse themselves in new technology, learn and engage with experts.

The schedule of events taking place in the Community Theatre, including specific times, dates and how to register your interest, will be announced in the coming weeks. A render of Microsoft at Westfield Sydney, on Pitt Street Mall can be downloaded here.