Leica Camera has announced that it will be expanding its premises in Bruton Place, London, in a bid to "provide a unique and personal experience to Leica customers."

The manufacturer, which has been experimenting two years of growth since the release of its M9 and S2 cameras, is planning to open a second Akademie training space, "allowing the company to offer a wider range of training workshops, one-to-one product demonstrations, advice sessions and private consultations for its customers," says Leica.

Leica also plans on opening a media centre, "where members of the media will be able to hold meetings and interviews with Leica representatives."

But, Leica has also leased a third building in Bruton Place for the launch of a "café-style area for Leica owners on the ground floor of no. 27." The three-storey building, which is being renovated by the company, will also incorporate a  glass-partitioned laboratory, "where light repairs and sensor cleaning will be undertaken."

On second floor, Leica is creating a new professional photographic studio, dubbed Studio-S, which will be available to hire exclusively to photographers using the Leica S-System.

The space will include changing and make-up areas, hospitality and digital operator facilities to accomodate for high-profile or confidential shoots, says Leica. "As well as on-site equipment, Leica will offer additional support such as Leica-trained photographic assistants, therefore providing a unique hire package."

"We make no apologies for taking inspiration from other pioneering premium retailers, such as Apple in Regent Street or Paul Smith in Covent Garden," says David Bell, managing director of Leica Camera Ltd. "We believe that this three-building retail village concept in the heart of Mayfair will provide a complete showcase for our products and services, and a creative environment for our customers. It will also give us the opportunity to host new kinds of events and activities on-site, with Studio-S converting into a versatile space for networking, customer and media events."

The new premises are scheduled to open in early Spring 2012. Visit www.leica-storemayfair.co.uk.