Apple has announced that it will be closing its Infinite Loop retail store, located in Cupertino, California, next month. The store, which served as Apple’s headquarters until 2017, will permanently shut its doors on January 20. While the store’s closure may come as a disappointment to Apple enthusiasts, the company has assured that its valued team members will have the opportunity to continue their roles with Apple. Employees will also be offered the chance to relocate to nearby stores, such as the Apple Park Visitor Center and Apple Valley Fair. This news comes as Apple remains committed to providing an excellent experience for its customers, with recent store openings and expansions in various countries around the world. Although the Infinite Loop Store will be missed, the company’s focus on continuing to innovate and serve its loyal customers is evident.
Background Information
Apple’s Infinite Loop Store, which is located in Cupertino, California, is set to permanently close its doors on January 20. This store holds significant importance as it served as Apple’s headquarters from the mid-1990s until the opening of the Apple Park headquarters in 2017. The closure of this iconic store marks the end of an era for Apple and its dedicated employees.
Apple’s Infinite Loop Store
The Infinite Loop Store, initially known as The Company Store, first opened its doors in 1993. It primarily focused on selling Apple-branded merchandise, catering to Apple enthusiasts who wanted to show their love for the brand. However, in 2015, the store underwent renovations and transformed into a traditional Apple retail store. It started offering a range of Apple products, including the iPhone, Mac, and Apple Watch.
Closure Announcement
Apple has confirmed its decision to permanently close the Infinite Loop Store. The announcement came as a surprise to many, as the store holds a special place in the hearts of Apple enthusiasts. Apple’s spokesperson stated that after many years of serving customers at the store, they have decided to close down the Infinite Loop location. However, Apple remains committed to providing an excellent shopping experience for its customers.
Employee Opportunities
Apple has assured all employees currently working at the Infinite Loop Store that they will have the opportunity to continue their roles with the company. Some employees will be offered the option to relocate to nearby stores, including the Apple Park Visitor Center and Apple Valley Fair. This opportunity allows the employees to remain within the Apple family and continue serving their loyal customers.
Closure of Other Apple Stores
In addition to the closure of the Infinite Loop Store, Apple has also announced the permanent closure of its Royal Hawaiian store in Honolulu. Despite these closures, Apple remains dedicated to expanding its retail presence. The company has opened new stores in various locations worldwide, including the U.S., China, India, South Korea, and the U.K. Apple has also expanded its online store to reach customers in Chile and Vietnam.
Commitment to Customer Experience
Although the closure of the Infinite Loop Store may come as a disappointment to many Apple enthusiasts, the company wants to assure its customers that it remains committed to providing an exceptional experience. Apple believes that the closure of the store will not hinder its ability to offer top-notch customer service. Customers can still enjoy a wide range of products and services through other Apple stores, the Apple Park Visitor Center, Apple.com, and the Apple Store app.
Continued Use of Infinite Loop Campus
While the Infinite Loop Store may be closing its doors, Apple’s corporate employees will continue using the offices at the Infinite Loop campus. The closure only affects the store portion of the campus. Construction is underway in the main building’s atrium and is expected to be completed by early 2024. This means that the vibrant atmosphere of Apple’s headquarters will continue to thrive within the campus.
History of the Store
The Infinite Loop Store holds a significant place in Apple’s history. Initially, it served as The Company Store, focusing on selling Apple-branded merchandise. Over the years, the store evolved and transformed into a traditional Apple retail location. It became a popular destination for Apple enthusiasts who wanted to experience the brand firsthand. Despite its smaller size compared to other Apple locations, the store showcased a carefully curated selection of products and merchandise that appealed to Apple fans.
Attraction for Apple Enthusiasts
The Infinite Loop Store has long been a pilgrimage site for Apple enthusiasts. Its proximity to Apple’s headquarters and its rich history make it a must-visit location for fans of the brand. Many enthusiasts have made the trip to Cupertino solely to visit the Infinite Loop Store and soak in the Apple experience. However, since the opening of the Apple Park Visitor Center in 2017, the attraction shifted towards the newer location.
Apple Park Visitor Center
The Apple Park Visitor Center, which opened in 2017, offers a more immersive and updated Apple experience compared to the Infinite Loop Store. Visitors can explore a different collection of Apple-branded merchandise, similar to what was offered at the Infinite Loop Store. The Visitor Center also functions as a traditional Apple retail store, complete with a Caffè Macs coffee bar and a rooftop patio. One of the highlights is a large augmented reality (AR) model of the Apple Park campus, providing a unique interactive experience.
Merchandise and Features
Both the Infinite Loop Store and the Apple Park Visitor Center offer a wide range of Apple-branded merchandise. From t-shirts to reusable bottles, mugs, and notebooks, customers can find products that allow them to showcase their love for the Apple brand. Additionally, the Apple Park Visitor Center provides additional features like the Caffè Macs coffee bar, which provides a space for visitors to relax and enjoy refreshments. The rooftop patio with its seating area offers a picturesque view of the surroundings, allowing visitors to unwind and take in the beauty of the campus.
In conclusion, the closure of Apple’s Infinite Loop Store signifies the end of a significant chapter in the company’s history. However, Apple remains dedicated to offering the best customer experience through its other retail locations, including the Apple Park Visitor Center. Despite the store’s closure, the Infinite Loop campus will continue to serve as the hub for Apple’s corporate employees, ensuring the legacy of Apple’s former headquarters lives on.
