Metropolis Desk-
Apple’s CEO Tim Cook is in India this week to open its first physical stores in the country, marking a milestone for the iPhone maker in the world’s second-largest smartphone market.
Cook was seen personally welcoming customers as employees cheered and clapped at the company’s new outlet in Mumbai, which opened Tuesday. He is widely expected to appear at a second store opening in Delhi on Thursday, reports CNN.
The move comes as the world’s most valuable company continues to pivot to India, eyeing its potential as both a consumer market and manufacturing base.
In a statement Monday, Cook pointed to Apple’s ongoing expansion in the country, saying its brick-and-mortar launch coincided with its 25th year of operating there.
“India has such a beautiful culture and an incredible energy,” he said. “We’re excited to build on our long-standing history — supporting our customers, investing in local communities, and working together to build a better future.”
In a separate statement Monday, Apple (AAPL) shared a peek of its new Mumbai store, located at a property owned by Reliance Industries, the conglomerate of Indian tycoon Mukesh Ambani.
The company bills the store as one of its “most energy-efficient” in the world, saying solar panels allow it to run solely on renewable power.
Apple did not respond to a request for further comment, or details of Cook’s visit.
