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Kobo has embarked on a European push with the launch of local content stores in Germany and Spain starting in May 2011, with local stores for France, Italy and the Netherlands following shortly after.
Kobo said it had partnered with local publishers and that the launch marked "the beginning of Kobo's European expansion".
However, European digital readers will need to download a Kobo e-reading application, or use the content on a dedicated e-reader such as the Sony or Nook. Kobo said its Wireless eReader would "soon be available across Europe".
Michael Serbinis, chief executive of Kobo, said: "European readers have been looking for an e-book service that encompasses the full range of mobile devices, tablets, and e-readers—we are happy to step up and fulfill that need.
"This announcement marks Kobo's entry into the European market and an industry first. In providing local content and reading experiences for European readers, Kobo continues to build on the vision of giving people around the world the freedom to read on any device, and share their love of reading with friends."
Kobo already offers locally merchandised English-language stores in the US, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand and Hong Kong.