Apple will close a store in northeastern China in August, the first time it has shuttered one of its retail locations since it opened its first outlet in the country in 2008.
The company said on Monday that it would close its store in Dalian City’s Parkland Mall on Aug. 9. On social media, locals have described the mall as struggling, noting that other brands like Michael Kors and Armani had closed their stores there.
“Given the departure of several retailers at the Parkland Mall, we have made the decision to close our store,” said Brian Bumbery, an Apple spokesman. “We love serving the Dalian community, and all of our valued team members will have the opportunity to continue their roles with Apple.”
The closure is the latest sign of how China’s economy continues to be challenged by tepid consumer spending. The government has poured large sums into programs designed to spur purchases of smartphones, washing machines and electric vehicles. The trade-in programs have gotten people to spend more but economists say the impact on consumption could be short-lived.
