Apple to open four new European stores [U]

(Updated with Belfast information) Apple is planning to open at least three new stores in Europe (Italian), according to one report citing an official Apple map. The Cupertino-based company is branching out with retail outlets in Monaco, Zurich, and Geneva. The stores are clearly marked on a company map that was recently updated, confirming rumors about a Monaco-based location. Apple has posted job listings for the three new stores, but has yet to specify opening dates or exact locations, according to Macitynet.it. [corrected]

The new store in Switzerland will mark the second Apple retail outlet in that region, making Switzerland the first European country besides England to have two stores. The report also speculates that Apple will soon open a second store in Italy -- likely in Milan.

The Monaco-based store will signal the first official Apple Store in Germany, and word came last week that the Mac-maker is looking to open that retail location in Munich. Munich is well known for attracting high-end shoppers looking to purchase expensive merchandise.

In related news, Apple has finalized its designs for two more retail stores in Canada. Locations in Vancouver and Montreal will boast 6,700 square-feet and a similar design to the Chestnut Street and Fifth Avenue locations, respectively. Apple is offering no date on when construction will likely finish for its Vancouver shop, but says the Montreal space could be complete by the end of 2008.

Update: Apple is also said to be searching for staff to populate its first store in Northern Ireland. The outlet will be located on the upper floor of the new Victoria Square shopping center in Belfast, which opens on March 6th. It is unknown, though, if the Apple Store will be ready for launch with the rest of the building.

Filed under: Apple
Other story tags: retail, store, Europe