Apple is getting ready to rethink the layout of its retail stores, with dedicated Genius Bars set to make a comeback as part of a broader redesign, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in his Sunday Power On newsletter.
The changes would move Apple away from some of the retail ideas introduced during the Angela Ahrendts era, when stores were increasingly designed around large gathering spaces, video walls and Today at Apple sessions.
One of the most biggest changes will be the return of a dedicated Genius Bar, bringing back a setup that longtime Apple customers will remember from the Steve Jobs era.
Many Apple Stores currently have a giant video wall at the back of the space, often used for Today at Apple sessions and promotional videos. Gurman says those walls will be removed in many stores and replaced with new Genius Bars.
The updated Genius Bar will have an all-wood design with two counter heights for accessibility. The wall behind the counter is expected to include storage drawers and large posters highlighting Apple products.
Apple is also changing how online pickups and Today at Apple sessions fit into the store.
Both will move into redesigned Avenue sections along the sides of the store. Online pickup areas will include secure drawers for customer orders and a table for employees handling pickups.
Today at Apple sessions will also move into their own Avenue section, with a large display, storage for devices, an instructor table and stools for customers.
Overall, the changes point to Apple putting more emphasis on practical retail functions such as service, product pickups and support instead of using as much floor space for large community-style areas.
Some elements of the redesign have already appeared in a small number of Apple Stores, according to Gurman. Apple has reportedly been testing the concepts internationally over the past year and plans a broader rollout across new and renovated stores over the next several years.
Apple currently operates 28 retail stores in Canada across Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Ontario and Quebec. Worldwide, the company has more than 530 locations.
Rolling out a new design across that many stores would be a major undertaking. With Apple now under John Ternus’ leadership, the retail changes could also become part of the company’s next chapter under its new CEO.
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