Google is in the final stages of selecting locations for its first-ever physical retail stores in India. These stores would be the first from Google outside the United States. According to a report by Reuters, Google is looking to establish a strong physical presence in one of its key growth markets.
As of now, Google has five brick-and-mortar outlets in the U.S., where it sells its hardware products, including Pixel smartphones, smartwatches, and earbuds. Google, as per the report, is looking to follow in Apples footsteps. Apple, which operates over 500 retail stores globally, entered the Indian retail market in 2023 with flagship stores in Mumbai and New Delhi.
According to the report, Google is close to finalising store locations in New Delhi and Mumbai, with Bengaluru also being considered at an earlier stage. The planned stores are expected to span approximately 15,000 square feet and could open within the next six months, as per the report.
The report also mentions that Gurugram is another potential location which Google is exploring.
Google’s premium Pixel smartphones hold a nominal share in the premium smartphone market. According to a report by Counterpoint Research, Pixel phones have close to 2% market share in the premium segment. Apple, on the other hand, has a commanding 55% share.
The report by Reuters states that Google’s goal is to compete with Apple in the premium segment and retail outlets will give it more visibility.
As of now, Google sells its devices in India through authorised retail partners.
The move comes as Google scales up local production of its Pixel devices in India, aligning with the government’s push for domestic manufacturing. While the exact launch timeline remains uncertain, Google’s foray into physical retail stores could give it a much-needed push to compete with Apple and the iPhone.
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