Apple will launch its own stores in India, partners with Tata-owned Croma

Apple Stores in partnership with electronics retailer Croma, are coming to India in six different locations as a pilot project. The outlets are supposed to open before Diwali next month just in time for the rush of festive shoppers who are likely to want to get a feel of the devices they wish to buy before laying out the cash for them.

Avijit Mitra, CEO of Croma owner Infiniti Retail, asserts the Indian Apple Store will have the same look as international outlets. This means the space will have the same design, fixtures, lighting and furniture as the global outfits of the company. Furthermore, the sales staff is to be trained by the brand itself.

Apple is planning to set up shop at 5 Croma outlets in Mumbai namely Juhu, Oberoi Mall, Malad, Ghatkopar and Phoenix Mall. Jayanagar in Bengaluru will get one as well. The shop requires 400-500 square feet in area at each location. The US-based brand has been selling its products through third-party retailers in India so far.

These range from multi-brand chains to premium resellers running exclusive stores under the franchise model. Apple hasn’t been able to introduce a standalone outfit in India yet because of the country’s local-sourcing rules for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in single-brand retail. By partnering with Croma, the manufacturer has the freedom to directly deal with customers within the limitations set by the government.

According to the Economic Times, Apple CEO Tim Cook is said to have requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ease the laws regarding sourcing norms. The company is stepping up its presence in the country to boost sales of the iPhone 6S and 6S Plus, which are arriving on October 16, with their starting price at Rs 62000. It further has plans to unveil its Watch by Diwali.

Common specs of the iPhone 6S and 6S Plus:

– Apple iOS 9 platform
– 2GB RAM, 16GB/64GB/128GB memory
– 2GHz dual-core Apple A9 processor
– 12MP iSight camera, 5MP FaceTime lens

If all goes to plan, the combined sales of the iPhone 6S and 6S Plus will total up to 12 lakh units in the October – December time period. The brand is probably hoping the Apple Store plays a vital part in achieving that goal.