Google to open its first retail shops exterior the US in India, near finalising websites – Firstpost

Google is getting ready to open its first-ever bodily retail shops in India. These shops would be the first of Google’s retail presence exterior america. In line with a report by Bloomberg, the Santa Clara-based tech big is near finalising websites in Delhi and Mumbai, marking a big step in its enlargement technique for considered one of its most promising markets.

India has develop into a significant focus for Google, because it has pledged to speculate $10 billion. Whereas the corporate already sells its Pixel telephones, watches, and earbuds by means of authorised retailers, this transfer will carry company-operated shops to Indian clients for the primary time.

Competing with Apple’s retail mannequin

Google’s strategy is much like that of Apple, which has reaped large success by means of its world retail community of over 500 shops. Apple entered the Indian retail area in 2023 with company-run shops in Mumbai and New Delhi, and Google now appears to be following go well with.

Sources informed Bloomberg that Google is near securing places in New Delhi and Mumbai, whereas Bengaluru has additionally been thought-about. The shops are anticipated to span round 15,000 sq. toes and will take no less than six months to open, although the timeline stays versatile. The purpose is to determine a powerful foothold within the premium section, the place Apple at the moment dominates.

Presently, Apple holds a commanding 55 per cent share of India’s premium smartphone market that are outlined as gadgets telephones priced above $520, whereas Google’s Pixel line accounts for simply 2 per cent. The corporate has already began manufacturing Pixel gadgets in India, and opening bodily shops might assist increase model presence and gross sales.

Regulatory hurdles and challenges

Whereas the plan to open shops is in movement, regulatory and compliance processes nonetheless have to be cleared earlier than the official launch. One potential location into consideration is Gurugram, a significant company hub close to New Delhi, the place world firms like Meta and Uber have workplaces and a number of other luxurious retail manufacturers have established shops.

Past enlargement plans, Google additionally faces regulatory challenges in India, together with ongoing antitrust investigations associated to its in-app billing system and alleged abuse of market dominance within the sensible TV sector.

Moreover, the corporate goes by means of management shifts within the nation. Google’s head of public coverage in India just lately stepped down, marking the second high-profile exit from the position in two years. This place performs a essential position in authorities relations, making the departure notably notable.

Regardless of these hurdles, Google stays dedicated to bringing its retail expertise to India. If the primary shops carry out properly, extra places might observe, strengthening Google’s presence in one of many world’s fastest-growing smartphone markets.