US electronics giant Apple has opened its largest flagship store in Asia at Beijing APM mall.

Thousands of Apple fans flocked to the mall, eagerly awaiting for the grand opening in Wangfujing.

The grand opening attracted over 30,000 fans queued up outside Beijing APM and 200,000 shoppers visited during opening days. The mall provided complimentary beverage and snacks to the fans, plus heaters to keep them warm. Apple gave away souvenirs to celebrate the occasion.

“The Apple store opening strengthens the mall’s positioning as Beijing’s most diversified shopping spot and boosts the high-tech gadget scene in the Wangfujing commercial district,” said executive director Jimmy Wong of Sun Hung Kai Real Estate Agency, the developer of APM mall.

Digital products now play an important role in shaping the trendy lifestyle of young Chinese consumers and Apple is expanding its sales network in China to tap into the growing demand. The 25,000 sqft Apple store at Beijing APM is its largest flagship store in Asia and the only three-storey outlet on the mainland. It offers a full product line including Mac, iPod, iPhone and iPad, plus free consultancy and technical support.

GB