Apple opens new WeChat storefront in China
Apple recently launched a new storefront on the WeChat platform in China to boost sales.
WeChat announced the newly opened online store, saying that Apple customers will have another way to buy Mac, iPad, iPhone and other devices and accessories. The Cupertino-based company effectively opens up a new distribution channel in the digital space as WeChat is the predominant use in the country.
Reuters reports that Apple’s move reflects a trend for consumers in China to shop via social platforms rather than in-store. TikTok, Douyin, and WeChat are some examples of this trend. This isn’t Apple’s first rodeo, however, as the company has an established Alibaba Tmall presence, where the company livestreams products as a marketing strategy.
WeChat in China is more than just a messaging platform. The app supports retail store presence and can be used to make payments. Apple hopes to grow its revenue in the region in the second quarter after a 2.9% decline compared to the year-ago quarter.
