Apple’s CEO Tim Cook is in India this week to open its first physical stores in the country, marking a milestone for the iPhone maker in the world’s second largest smartphone market.
Ednews reports citing Cook was seen personally welcoming customers as employees cheered and clapped at the company’s new outlet in Mumbai, which opened Tuesday. He is widely expected to appear at a second store opening in Delhi on Thursday.
The move comes as the world’s most valuable company continues to pivot to India, eyeing its potential as both a consumer market and manufacturing base.
In a statement Monday, Cook pointed to Apple’s ongoing expansion in the country, saying its brick-and-mortar launch coincided with its 25th year of operating there.
“India has such a beautiful culture and an incredible energy,” he said. “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.”
In a separate statement Monday, Apple (AAPL) shared a peek of its new Mumbai store, located at a property owned by Reliance Industries, the conglomerate of Indian tycoon Mukesh Ambani.
