Introduction: Apple’s first retail store in India set to launch at Jio World Drive Mall in Mumbai
After years of speculation, Apple’s first flagship retail store in India is set to launch soon at the Jio World Drive Mall in Mumbai. Known as the Apple BKC, the store is expected to be a flagship store for the tech giant in the country, offering a range of products and services to Indian customers.
The launch of the Apple BKC comes amidst a stream of favorable tailwinds for the tech giant in India. Despite the broader macro-economic pressures in the country, the premium smartphone market in India continues to grow in double digits. Indian consumers are transforming from being mere ‘value and price conscious’ to becoming ‘truly aspirational’ in seeking premium smartphones that are not just mere lifestyle statements but enduring life enablers.
Offline retail also continues to be pivotal in a large, diverse market like India. Indian consumers love to touch, feel and explore the products before making their purchase considerations. The Apple-owned flagship store in Mumbai is expected to offer Indian consumers the opportunity to experience Apple’s products in a way that they have not been able to before.
Apple’s retail stores set a standard in terms of consumer experience
Apple’s retail stores globally set a standard in terms of consumer experience, staff knowledge and expertise, and the service standards, amongst others. The company would seek to replicate that experience in India to double down on its strong brand equity and steer greater market growth in the years ahead.
Furthermore, India is a long-term strategic growth driver for Apple. The company has enjoyed a strong growth momentum in India, driven by growing domestic manufacturing, aggressive marketing and affordability initiatives, and the success of the Apple India Online store. The launch of the India’s first flagship Apple store completes the puzzle for Apple’s future growth in India.
Potential launch of second Apple store in Select Citywalk, New Delhi
According to reports, the Mumbai store is set to be followed by a second Apple store potentially at Select Citywalk in New Delhi. The company has reportedly leased a space of around 20,000 square feet at the mall and is currently in the process of renovating it to suit its needs.
The launch of the Apple-owned flagship store in Mumbai is expected to have a significant impact on the premium smartphone market in India. The company is likely to offer a range of products and services that were previously unavailable to Indian consumers. The Apple flagship store is also expected to create new jobs in the retail sector and boost the local economy.
The launch of the Apple BKC comes at a time when the Indian government is actively promoting domestic manufacturing of smartphones and other electronics. Apple has already started manufacturing some of its products in India and is reportedly looking to expand its manufacturing operations in the country.
In conclusion, the launch of the Apple-owned flagship store in Mumbai is a significant milestone for the tech giant in India. It is expected to have a significant impact on the premium smartphone market in the country and create new opportunities for growth. The launch of the store is also likely to boost the local economy and create new jobs in the retail sector. With the launch of the store, Apple is well-positioned to capitalize on the growth opportunities in India and strengthen its presence in the country.