Nokia’s global operations are set to shrink further with the announcement that it will shutter its retail stores in New York and Chicago.

 

The move follows news early this week that the handset vendor was closing its London flagship store and recent cuts to its global R&D workforce.

 

The US outlets were opened in 2006 with the goal of reinforcing the Nokia brand and educate consumers on the benefits of mobility.

 

Nokia claims that it is closing its stores because “consumer awareness in the US has grown substantially,” and said it would rely on its retail partners, including Amazon and Best Buy.

 

“In North America, over 90% of consumer purchases are made through carriers - Nokia continues to support our relationship with carriers in this market, as well as the continued expansion of our retail partner network with the likes of Amazon and Best Buy (for example), in line with our strategy,” the company said in a statement.

 

The stores will close in early 2010.

 

“This decision was made to create clear alignment with our local market strategy and, in addition, as part of a global realignment of our overall retail strategy,” Nokia added.