Yes. Nokia run some "Flagship stores" which is the London store and a Heathrow store; these will be the only two getting the N900 before December. The other Nokia stores (known as Nokia partner stores) are ran by MPD, whose main store is in Southampton.

Basically MPD have got it before any non Nokia store has. I wouldn't be suprised if MPD's relationship with Nokia has had a hit after this fiasco.