- Apple (AAPL) is now utilizing its retail store network as distribution centers for shipping products to its customers
Apple (AAPL) is now utilizing its retail store network as distribution centers for shipping products to its customers, according to Bloomberg. Generally, Apple shipped devices such as iPhones, Macs, iPads, etc. from warehouses near customers or from China directly.
So products that are in stock can be shipped directly to customers from 300 retail stores across the U.S. and Canada. Apple told its staff that this change will mean faster delivery times for customers who live further away from distribution centers than from stores.
The products are going to be shipped through United Parcel Service in Canada and FedEx in the U.S. through ground shipping and it may be delivered as early as the day after the customer’s order. This program applies to customers who live within 100 miles from a store.
This month, Apple is reportedly going to announce four new 5G iPhones and a smaller version of its HomePod speaker. And as Apple has been preparing for the increased demand for its products during the holiday season, the company tested the delivery program with a smaller number of retail stores in June and July.
Apple has also considered the conversion of certain stores into online support and sales call centers in case locations need to be closed again due to the pandemic. And back rooms at certain stores have been used as call centers.
