Grand Central, Sir: Apple Invade NYC

Apple is gearing up to open its first retail outlet Manhattan’s Grand Central Terminal this Friday at 10 a.m., the company confirmed.The store, located at 45 Grand Central Terminal, will be fifth Apple Store in New York City.
The store will open daily from 7am to 9pm Monday to Friday and also weekends in a bid to catch commuters on varying work schedules in one of New York’s busiest spots.

It has already opened up online bookings for the Genius Bar, business users and one-to-one-consultations.

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New Grand Central Station Store: Image: 9to5Mac

But the Apple Store opening is not without controversy – the giant is paying approximately US$1.1 m per year in rent for the space – well below market rates for the terminal or Manhattan area, according to MacRumours.

The State of New York is also said to be investigating the deal’s terms.

However, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority insist they got the fairest deal possible from Apple.

Reports also suggest that the new  store is a part of the terminal itself rather than sectioned off retail space.