Meridian Audio has announced plans to expand its chain of boutique stores around the world, including a flagship store in the UK.

Meridian Audio Boutique, Siam Paragon shopping mall, Pathumwan district, Bangkok

Each of the Meridian Boutiques follows the same format, including the Gallery, which showcases compact products such as the M80 audio system; a Concierge Reception lounge with advice on systems and installations; the Meridian Experience, a theatre for demonstrations of home cinema products; the Crown Jewels, which shows off the latest Meridian products and the Orangery, a demo room for home set-up products.

The British firm, which sells 85 per cent of its products outside the UK, launched its first Concept store in Bangkok, Thailand, last year, followed by further stores in Chile, Mexico, Kuwait, Taiwan, India (two stores in Bangalore and New Delhi) and Russia.

A second Russian store is planned to open in the spring, along with new boutiques in Singapore, China (Beijing) and the UK.

Graeme Taylor, Meridian Audio’s chief marketing officer, said: "While our products are made in Britain with a regional workforce, we take a global view at every level of our business. This philosophy, combined with increasing wealth in emerging markets and a growing desire for quality British manufactured products, have resulted in demand outstripping supply for our products in 2010. For instance, our latest CD player, the 808.3 Signature Reference model, currently has a six-week waiting list.”