Eager to serve Indian customers, Apple says after single brand retail norms ease up

However, it will take some time before you can see the first Apple store in India, given that these stores are a big statement by the company and comes with patented architectural features and elements. The Apple store has over the years taken over the concept of becoming a town square with free flow of the public.

However, it seems likely that the first store will come up in Mumbai, the financial capital of India. But even before that you can expect the online store to be up and running.

Meanwhile, the India Cellular & Electronics Association (ICEA) has welcomed the government’s decision saying this will open up “a retailing environment parallel to the best in the world”.

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“At the same time, ICEA reiterates that we do not support FDI in multi-brand retail trading because of India’s socio-economic structure. However, single-brand retail is greatly welcomed. SBRT reforms as announced by the Government will usher in significant growth of handset demand and better customer experience amongst other important reasons”.

“The reforms will have a long-lasting impact in boosting market hygiene, enhancing customer satisfaction and most importantly raising mobile handset retail to international standards. Iconic stores of global standards have a symbolic value for the nation too,” said Pankaj Mohindroo of ICEA.

He said it is a proven fact globally that such stores are primarily meant as a brand-building exercise to accentuate product quality and endurance and this in no way affects the brick and mortar stores or the existing retail business.