HARMAN, the global leader in premium audio and infotainment, opened a flagship store in Moscow, Russia on March 9, 2014, in the heart of the 'golden' commercial district. This is the fourth such HARMAN showcase, preceded by earlier openings in New York City (2013), Seoul (2013), and Shanghai (2010).
The first HARMAN flagship store in Russia brings together offerings ranging from portable audio products to luxury sound systems, produced by legendary brands as JBL®, Harman Kardon®, AKG®, Infinity®, JBL® Synthesis, Mark Levinson®, Lexicon®, and Revel™. The new store will serve a wide range of enthusiasts, from audiophiles and tech pros to music fans and design connoisseurs.
The interior of the new flagship store was designed by Wowhaus, the architectural firm whose portfolio includes such notable projects as the Gorky Park renovation, reconstruction of the Krymskaya embankment, Sokolniki Park, and the Strelka Institute for media, architecture and design. The interior design incorporates striking features from the HARMAN store in New York City, while also retaining the unique Russian character of the surrounding neighborhood and architecture.
Four showrooms totaling more than 200 sq. m. present the current model range of HARMAN brands. Two rooms feature headphones, multimedia, home electronics and loudspeakers, and two others serve as special demonstration rooms for luxury stereo and multichannel home theaters.
JBL, Harman Kardon, AKG, and Infinity premium consumer electronics are arranged in the showrooms by category, and skilled consultants will help customers compare and choose products that fulfill their expectations in regard to design, functionality and music preferences. Pricing is in accordance with recommended retail prices set for other HARMAN resellers.
The enclosed demo rooms allow intimate previews of HARMAN's luxury loudspeakers and electronics from JBL Synthesis, Mark Levinson, Lexicon, and Revel. The demos will be updated regularly following the launches of new models, and listening sessions are available for clients of HARMAN authorized dealers and HARMAN clients by appointment.
Featured during the opening were a variety of new HARMAN products, including headphones from a new series -- JBL Synchros. The first 100 customers received premium Harman Kardon headphones as a gift with their first purchase, and opening-day guests also received some special memorabilia. After sharing a personal photo from the event on Instagram with the hashtag #harmanstore, each guest received a hard copy from HARMAN.
The official opening ceremony of the HARMAN flagship store was hosted by Alexandr Bon, well-known DJ on Radio Maximum. Guests also enjoyed a performance by Tina, finalist of the second season of the popular TV show 'The Voice'. The evening’s grand finale included a breathtaking light show projected on the store facade.