Apple has confirmed that its first retail store in Thailand will open next month in Bangkok — and it looks absolutely spectacular. If Apple’s goal was to make a strong impression from day one, we can safely say this: Mission accomplished.
The new store is part of the ambitious Iconsiam complex on the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok. Along with Apple’s debut retail store in the country, Iconsiam is home to two shopping malls, a department store, 3,000-seat auditorium, amusement park, fitness center, and residential buildings.
The Iconsiam complex opens on November 9, 2018. The Apple Store will open one day later at 10am local time on November 10. A webpage for the Apple Store contains the following message (translated):
“Apple Iconsiam Chao Phraya River will be the center for people to exchange ideas, learn, and create something. It is a place to be inspired and spark creative ideas for the people in the community.”
In terms of design, the new retail store bears a strong resemblance to the Michigan Avenue Apple Store, which opened two years ago in 2016. The Chicago Store contains around 20,000-square-feet of retail space, mostly below ground level. The entrance to the store boasts an innovative roof design that provides shade for shoppers walking past.
Photo: Spin9
In Thailand, iOS makes up around 14.3 percent of the mobile marketshare, compared to Android’s approximately 85.3 percent. However, in terms of individual device makers, Apple’s phones are second only to Samsung in popularity. Thailand has a population comparable, but slightly larger than, the United Kingdom.
We wonder which, if any, Apple executives will make the trip for the official November 10 opening. Will you be there? Drop us a line (and some pictures!) if so.
Source: Spin9
