Apple to close first retail store in China since 2008
Apple has confirmed it will close its Dalian retail location in northeast China on 9 August, marking the tech company’s first store shutdown in the country since opening its initial mainland outlet in 2008.
The move comes amid shifting consumer trends and declining foot traffic at the Parkland Mall, where the store is based.
Located in the coastal city of Dalian, the store was one of Apple’s earlier expansions into mainland China.
While Apple has not publicly provided a detailed explanation for the decision, local reports indicate that the closure is due to significantly reduced customer traffic in the mall, which has seen a decline in popularity in recent years.
A notice posted at the store confirmed that it will cease operations after 9 August.
Parkland Mall, once a key shopping destination in Liaoning Province, has faced challenges as more consumers move towards online shopping platforms.
The shift in retail habits has affected many brick-and-mortar stores across China, with shopping centres in second-tier cities experiencing the sharpest impact.
Despite the upcoming closure, Apple continues to maintain a substantial retail presence in China, operating over 40 physical stores nationwide. Major cities including Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen remain central to Apple’s retail strategy in the region.
China represents one of Apple’s most important markets, both for sales and manufacturing.
However, the company has faced increasing competition from domestic smartphone makers, as well as changes in consumer sentiment and local regulations.
The closure of the Dalian store does not indicate a broader pullback, but rather appears to be a location-specific decision.
Apple’s decision to close the Dalian outlet reflects wider pressures on physical retail in China, where consumers are increasingly favouring digital-first shopping experiences.
E-commerce platforms such as JD.com, Pinduoduo and Alibaba continue to dominate retail sales, making it more challenging for traditional stores to sustain profitability, especially outside tier-one cities.
Industry analysts note that store closures like this may become more common as global retailers adjust their footprints to match evolving consumer behaviours.
While Apple’s core customer base in China remains robust, the company appears to be reassessing the viability of certain locations amid broader retail market shifts.
The Dalian store will remain open until 9 August, after which it will permanently shut its doors. Customers in the area will still be able to access Apple services and support through online channels and other nearby locations.
