Best Buy, the US electronics retailer, and Carphone Warehouse have had a joint venture to operate big-box UK electronics stores since 2008. This week the two confirmed the end of that JV, acknowledging that US retail formats like the big box store don't necessarily fit UK and European markets.The two companies are still working together, however. Best Buy is buying Carphone Warehouse's ownership stake in Best Buy Mobile (a growing business) and the two are starting a new operation, Global Connect, to retail mobiles and related services in Best Buy affiliated stores within Asia and other regions.
Best Buy is continuing to explore expansion of its non-store retailing, including Best Buy Express kiosks located in airport terminals and other places.
How much will online shopping affect in-store retailing? Will retail kiosks gain in popularity?
