Apple And Sounds Join Force!

Hot News Release ­ Apple and Sounds join force!

The Apple Division of Renaissance and Sounds Music Stores are going to give New Zealanders the opportunity to enjoy music in new and exciting ways!

Sounds have positioned themselves at the forefront of the digital music revolution; working with Renaissance's Apple Division on a unique Digital Music "store-within-a-store" concept. This concept will see Apple iPods being sold through the leading music retailer. A section of Sounds stores will be set aside solely as an area to showcase the iPod, where customers can experience its functionality first hand on demo units.

Paul Johnston, Managing Director of Renaissance (exclusive distributor of Apple in New Zealand) said,

"This is an absolutely fantastic opportunity for us. The iPod is the hottest MP3 player out and Sounds are a great partner as they reach a wide range of people that we don't usually attract through the traditional IT channel."

Sean Coleman, Managing Director of Sounds, also recognises the benefits of this developing relationship for Sounds, which is New Zealand's largest music chain. He said,

"Sounds have always been at the leading edge of music delivery to our customers, be it vinyl, cassette, compact disc or DVD. Digital delivery is part of our future and whilst the jury is still out on the size of the market it will occupy, this alliance with Renaissance's Apple Division shows that we are still focused on doing what we do best, giving our customers great service and superb choice in whatever format they require."

This partnership will also introduce music lovers to Apple's critically acclaimed music software, iTunes. iTunes, like the iPod, is available for both Windows & Macintosh. The iTunes software allows listeners to store their music on their computer then synchronise the iPod with iTunes to create a personal, portable music library.

The partnership between Sounds and the Apple Division of Renaissance should encourage the legal use of digital music, as it gives customers the opportunity to purchase CD's and an iPod from the same store.

Paul Johnston said,

"Apple are very aware of the need to promote the legal use of music, and I believe the ŒDon't steal music' message is getting through."

The new store-within-a-store concept will be introduced in the new Sounds North Head store in Christchurch by the end of February. This will be followed soon after by Auckland's busy Queen Street store. Other proposed stores likely to follow are Auckland's Botany and Shore City stores. Pending the success of these installations, the iPod store will be rolled out progressively in other Sounds stores throughout the country.

ENDS

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