DALIAN: Apple is closing one of its retail outlets in China for the first time since entering the market in 2008, marking a significant strategic retreat in what was once its second-largest market. The Parkland Mall store in Dalian City’s Zhongshan District will officially shut its doors on August 9.
The iPhone maker stated that the decision stems from changes in the mall’s commercial landscape. Parkland Mall has seen a drop in foot traffic and the exit of several international brands like Coach, Sandro, and Hugo Boss. Apple confirmed that the shift in retail dynamics influenced its decision to cease operations at the location.
In a statement to Bloomberg, the company said: “Given the departure of several retailers at the Parkland Mall, we have made the decision to close our store there.” Apple also emphasised its commitment to offering exceptional customer experiences across its more than 50 stores in Greater China.
The Dalian Parkland Mall store is one of two Apple outlets in the city, both within a 10-minute radius. The Olympia 66 store will remain operational, and affected staff from the closing store will be relocated.
Despite this closure, Apple is expanding elsewhere in China and globally. It plans to open a new store in Shenzhen’s Uniwalk Qianhai in August, along with new stores in Beijing and Shanghai next year. The brand is also ramping up its presence in the Middle East and Asia with new stores in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, India, and Malaysia.
Apple’s move in Dalian is seen as a tactical response to retail market shifts, rather than a pullback from the Chinese market.
