Largest location in China to date

Apple has today formally launched its Nanjing East store in Shanghai, China. The outlet is Apple's largest in China to date. One report notes that it may serve up to 40,000 people per day, and that some 300 store workers were present for the opening, with about 500 visitors lined up to become the first official customers. Reuters adds that some people flew in from nearby cities.

Apple has also launched its first store in Hong Kong at the IFC Mall. While it may not attract as many people as the new Shanghai store, it should still prove lucrative, since Hong Kong has many wealthy residents. It is also the focus of the Chinese gray market, since products frequently arrive there earlier, at a cheaper price and unlocked. It remains to be seen what percentage of shoppers at the IFC location will prove to be scalpers.

by MacNN Staff