In a significant move, Apple Inc. is set for its first-ever retail store closure in China, marking a pivotal moment in its operations within a crucial market. The company announced on Monday that its Parkland Mall store in the Zhongshan District of Dalian City will shut its doors on August 9, citing shifts in the shopping complex’s environment.
According to foreign media, this decision comes as Apple continues to navigate a challenging landscape in China, where it currently operates around 56 stores, accounting for over 10 per cent of its global retail footprint of more than 530 outlets.
Exit driven by retail exodus and deflation concerns
In its statement, Apple highlighted its commitment to delivering an exceptional customer experience, both online and through its numerous physical locations in Greater China, adding that the decision to close the Parkland Mall store follows the departure of several other retailers from the complex, signalling a broader trend affecting retail dynamics in the region.
As per foreign media reports, China is currently facing deflationary pressures, with declining consumer spending and global tariffs impacting exports. The country’s retail sales growth has been lower than anticipated, and home prices have seen a quicker decline. Amid these economic challenges, Apple’s sales in China dropped by 2.3 per cent to $16 billion in the second quarter, falling short of analysts’ expectations of $16.8 billion.
Second Dalian store to remain operational
The Parkland Mall location is one of two Apple stores in Dalian City, with the other situated in the Olympia 66 shopping complex, which will remain operational. “Employees affected by the closure will be offered opportunities to transfer to other locations,” Apple said. The two stores are conveniently located approximately ten minutes apart.
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Apple maintains expansion plans in China and beyond
Despite this closure, Apple is not withdrawing from the Chinese market entirely. The company is poised to open a new store at Uniwalk Qianhai in Shenzhen on August 16 and has plans for additional locations in Beijing and Shanghai over the next year.
Earlier this year, Apple opened a new store in Anhui province and is also looking to expand in other international markets including Detroit, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and India.
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