Hardware Launch Tactics 101: "Kinect Stock Low" for UK

Retailers Zavi, HMV and Shopto are stating that launch day stocks of Kinect are 'tight', mirroring what Microsoft's GM for UK & Ireland Neil Thompson as already stated.

Standard practice for a hardware launch is to get lots of people queing outside stores to get their hands on the latest gear. A problem arises if consumers are (a) not the bothered (b) there is lots of stock. Hence Hardware Launch 101: "We might not have enough stock".

Lewis has already told MCV, "In terms of allocation I can’t meet the demand every single retailer has of me for day one,” he said. “But I do think we have what I would call a healthy launch volume for week one."

Now online retailer Zavi has stated, "Kinect is not in full supply at the moment... we are working closely with Microsoft to ensure a full allocation to satisfy our customer demand".

This is a sentiment restated by HMV which talks of stock being a 'little light' while stating, "but that's partly because of the huge demand we've seen on pre-order..."

Not to be left out Shopto told Eurogamer, "initial stock will be limited and/or tight".

For its part, the Game Group is urging people to get its stores at midnight on November 9th for the launch of the product.

Game Locations for midnight launch.
GameStation for midnight launch.