 "Google to open its first retail stores outside the US in India, close to finalising sites at Mumbai, Delhi")
Google is preparing to open its first-ever physical retail stores in India. These stores will be the first of Google’s retail presence outside the United States. According to a report by Bloomberg, the Santa Clara-based tech giant is close to finalising sites in Delhi and Mumbai, marking a significant step in its expansion strategy for one of its most promising markets.
India has become a major focus for Google, as it has pledged to invest $10 billion. While the company already sells its Pixel phones, watches, and earbuds through authorised retailers, this move will bring company-operated stores to Indian customers for the first time.
Competing with Apple’s retail model
Google’s approach is similar to that of Apple, which has reaped massive success through its global retail network of over 500 stores. Apple entered the Indian retail space in 2023 with company-run stores in Mumbai and New Delhi, and Google now seems to be following suit.
Sources told Bloomberg that Google is close to securing locations in New Delhi and Mumbai, while Bengaluru has also been considered. The stores are expected to span around 15,000 square feet and could take at least six months to open, though the timeline remains flexible. The goal is to establish a strong foothold in the premium segment, where Apple currently dominates.
Currently, Apple holds a commanding 55 per cent share of India’s premium smartphone market which are defined as devices phones priced above $520, while Google’s Pixel line accounts for just 2 per cent. The company has already started manufacturing Pixel devices in India, and opening physical stores could help boost brand presence and sales.
Regulatory hurdles and challenges
While the plan to open stores is in motion, regulatory and compliance processes still need to be cleared before the official launch. One potential location under consideration is Gurugram, a major corporate hub near New Delhi, where global companies like Meta and Uber have offices and several luxury retail brands have established outlets.
Beyond expansion plans, Google also faces regulatory challenges in India, including ongoing antitrust investigations related to its in-app billing system and alleged abuse of market dominance in the smart TV sector.
Additionally, the company is going through leadership shifts in the country. Google’s head of public policy in India recently stepped down, marking the second high-profile exit from the role in two years. This position plays a critical role in government relations, making the departure particularly notable.
Despite these hurdles, Google remains committed to bringing its retail experience to India. If the first stores perform well, more locations could follow, strengthening Google’s presence in one of the world’s fastest-growing smartphone markets.
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