Google is opening their first retail store in New York City this Summer 2021. Google’s VP of Direct Channels & Membership, Jason Rosenthal, says the store will be located in the Chelsea area. That area was chosen since it will be incorporated into Google’s urban campus in the neighborhood. Furthermore, the tech company has over 11,000 employees in New York City.
Google will use this store to “explore and experiment with the possibilities of a physical retail space and build upon the experience.”
Customers will be able to examine and purchase the wide range of products from Google. That includes Pixel phones, Nest products, Fitbit devices and Pixelbooks. Additionally, the store will showcase how all of these products can work together.
Apple has been operating retail stores since the first one opened in Tysons Corner on May 19, 2001. The iPhone maker says in their latest annual report that their retail stores “have required and will continue to require a substantial investment and commitment of resources.” Apple designates particular stores to “serve as high-profile venues to promote brand awareness.” Those locations require substantially more investment than the company’s standard store.
Apple introduced their “Genius Bar” concept at that first Tysons Corner store. Meanwhile, Google’s Store will also have experts on hand for repairs, installation help or troubleshooting. Similar to Apple, workshops will also be offered.
Running retail stores isn’t easy- just ask Microsoft. The Windows company closed their physical stores in June 2020. Microsoft announced a “new approach to retail”. Their retail team would continue to serve customers remotely. Furthermore, Microsoft would continue to invest in its “digital storefronts” on Microsoft.com as well as the Xbox and Windows stores.
