On October 18, 2024, Apple will unveil Apple Belfast, the new flagship store in Northern Ireland. Replacing the former Apple Victoria Square, which closed on October 15, 2024, this new location is situated in Cornmarket, just a short walk from the old store.
The move comes amid a broader exodus of brands from Belfast's Victoria Square shopping center. Apple Belfast’s new home is in a fresh retail hub called The Keep, which recently welcomed a multi-floor H&M store, among other high-profile retailers.
Wendy Beckman, Apple’s Head of Retail for Europe, expressed excitement over the opening:
“We are thrilled to be opening our new store in Belfast, after serving customers in the city since 2008. Our new home will be a place for all of the community and serve as a destination to explore and buy Apple's incredible product line-up, experience unparalleled service and support, and learn how to get the most out of Apple’s devices.”
What’s New with Apple Belfast?
A New Location: Apple Belfast is a single-level store, in contrast to the former two-floor Apple Victoria Square. Expanded Staff: The store will employ more than 90 people, including creatives like poets, musicians, and singers, hinting at special local "Today at Apple" sessions in the future. Community-Focused: As with all Apple Stores, Apple Belfast will be a community space, offering expert product advice, technical support, and unique learning opportunities.Though it hasn't yet been announced, Apple has been known to host Today at Apple events tailored to the local community for special store openings, suggesting something exciting might be planned for the new Belfast location.
A Unique Position
Apple Belfast stands as the only Apple Store in Northern Ireland, and indeed the sole store on the entire island of Ireland, despite Apple's longstanding presence in Cork, where the company has its European headquarters.
This makes the new Apple Belfast store a critical destination for all Apple fans and users in the region. With Apple’s continued push towards customer experience and local engagement, the Belfast community can expect even more from this new store in the coming months.