CEO Cook to welcome customers as Apple set to open first retail store in India

Apple’s first store in India, located in Mumbai’s BKC business district, is set to open as the company marks 25 years in the country. CEO Tim Cook is expected to be present at the opening, and the store features local influences such as a “kaali-peeli” theme on the facade inspired by the city’s iconic black and yellow taxis. The store also emphasizes sustainability and inclusivity, with a diverse team speaking 18 Indian languages and a significant portion of female staff. Apple has been increasing its focus on manufacturing in India as an alternative to China

Apple's chief executive Tim Cook is likely to welcome customers to the iPhone maker's first store in India, which is scheduled to open at the BKC business district here on Tuesday, company executives said on Monday.

The store is being unveiled as the company marks 25 years in the country. Store openings for the iconic brand the world over have witnessed fans queuing up to become the first customer, and it remains to be seen how the people of Mumbai welcome the store on a working day.

On the eve of opening for customers, a media preview was held at the store which is spread over a 20,000 sq. ft area. The Mumbai store opening will be followed with the unveiling of a similar facility in New Delhi's Saket on April 20. According to reports, Mr, Cook will also meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"India has such a beautiful culture and an incredible energy, and we're excited to build on our long-standing history -- supporting our customers, investing in local communities, and working together to build a better future with innovations that serve humanity," Mr. Cook said in a statement.

In the evening, Mr. Cook tweeted a picture of himself with Apple employees at the store, saying, "Hello, Mumbai! We can't wait to welcome our customers to the new Apple BKC tomorrow".

The company's senior vice-president for retail Deirdre O'Brien told reporters that attention had been given to Apple's key beliefs of sustainability and inclusivity, and pointed out that the 100-strong team which will be on the floor will be speaking 18 Indian languages.

The company employs 2,500 people in the country and has indirectly helped create 10 lakh jobs through its app ecosystem, she said.