Apple CEO Tim Cook inaugurated India’s first retail store on Tuesday, 18 April 2023 (Today), in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC). The store is located on Jio World Drive and covers 20,000 square feet. Apple has been absent from the Indian market for more than 25 years. However, in 2020, the tech giant opened its first online store in the country. The company is now expanding its footprint in India with the opening of physical stores.

Apple BKC Store: Architecture and Design

The Apple BKC store in Mumbai has a unique design, with a triangular handcrafted timber ceiling that extends beyond the glass facade to the underside of the exterior canopy. The ceiling comprises 1,000 tiles, each of which is made of 408 pieces of timber and consists of 31 modules. The store’s unique geometry reflects in the ceiling, creating an attractive visual appeal. The store has been designed to give customers a unique shopping experience with a focus on aesthetics and customer engagement.

Apple BKC Services

The store has display tables and avenues with the latest iPhone, Mac, iPad, AirPods, Apple Watch, and Apple TV lineups, as well as AirTag accessories. Apple BKC offers Apple Pickup, which makes it easy for customers to order online and pick up products when it’s convenient for them. The company has also recruited more than 100 people who speak more than 20 languages to provide personalized assistance to customers.

Apple’s Expansion Plans in India

Apple plans to open its second store in India, Apple Saket, on April 20 in New Delhi. The company aims to expand its retail presence in the country and provide customers with a world-class shopping experience. The Mumbai and Delhi stores will be the first of many Apple stores to come in the future.

Lease Details and Revenue Sharing

Apple has signed an 11-year lease agreement with Jio World Mall for the BKC store. The lease agreement includes a 15% rent escalation provision every three years. As part of the agreement, Apple has agreed to provide a minimum monthly guarantee of Rs. 42 lahk for three years in addition to a 2% revenue share. After three years, Apple will pay 2.5% of its revenue share to the Mumbai shopping center.

Conclusion

The opening of India’s first Apple store is a significant milestone for Apple’s expansion plans in India. The company’s presence in the Indian retail market is expected to boost its sales and brand image in the country. The store’s unique design and personalized customer experience are sure to attract customers and increase footfall. Apple’s entry into the Indian retail market is also expected to boost the country’s economy and create job opportunities for local residents.