Nintendo Europe has said that one million Nintendo DS handhelds have shipped in Europe. The Nintendo DS sold 500,000 units in its first three weeks after launch on March 11, 2005. Jim Merrick, Senior Director, European Marketing, Nintendo of Europe said, "The European launch of Nintendo DS has been a massive success with sales shattering all previous records in the opening weekend and remaining consistently strong. This product reflects Nintendos dedication to innovation and the advancement of gaming, providing novel and exciting new ways to play games. European consumers have adopted Nintendos sense of fun and innovation to give fantastic support to the Nintendo DS."