LG suspends talks with Apple about selling iPhones at its retail stores

Credit: Andrew O'Hara, AppleInsider

Back in June, the South Korean company was reportedly in negotiations with Apple on a retail partnership. Now, however, it appears to have temporarily ended those talks after some local backlash.

SME Daily reports that LG ended talks after controversy stirred among small- and medium-sized retailers, as well as among consumers. There is apparently a "growing concern" that LG's Best Shop would suspend employee training for Apple sales.

The South Korean government has also emphasized competition, suggesting that it's worried about large retail partnerships threatening the livelihood of smaller outlets in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Additionally, Samsung is said to be concerned about the potential cooperation between LG and Apple, which could threaten its leadership in its home market.

It isn't clear when — or if — negotiations between LG and Apple will resume.

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