Apple teases new Thailand store ahead of Friday opening

Ahead of a grand opening later this week, Apple on Tuesday offered an early look at Apple Central World, the company's second and largest retail outlet in Thailand.

Located in Ratchaprasong, Bangkok, the outlet features a distinct all-glass design topped by a cantilevered "Tree Canopy" roof. Reminiscent of the circular, glass-supported pavilion situated above Apple Park's Steve Jobs Theater, the design of Apple Central World is a first for Apple's retail division.

The two-story building boasts a central spiral staircase that winds around a timber core, next to which a tube-like glass elevator shaft stands. A large video wall upstairs sits in front of the store's Forum, while product displays span both floors. Business customers can receive special sales and support assistance in the store's Boardroom. More than 130 new team members speaking 17 languages work at the location.

Visitors enter the store on either level, with the second floor offering access to the Skytrain and Bangkok's largest shopping center. Like other Apple Stores, the new Thailand property boasts a large courtyard area with benches and foliage, in this case Terminalia trees.

"We are excited for visitors to discover this truly one-of-a-kind store in Ratchaprasong," said Deirdre O'Brien, Apple SVP of Retail and People. "With our future Today at Apple sessions and a phenomenal team ready to welcome the community with exceptional service and support, we can't wait for our customers to experience Apple Central World."

Apple Central World is scheduled to open on Friday, July 31, at 10 a.m. The company notes standard Apple Store health and safety measures apply to the new outlet, meaning employees and visitors must wear masks, undergo temperature checks and participate in social distancing precautions.