[Update: 24 August 2020]
In a statement today (24 August), Apple confirmed that it will be opening its third Singapore store at Marina Bay Sands (MBS) “soon”, though it did not disclose an exact opening date.
The upcoming store will be housed in a dome-like structure that floats on the waters of Marina Bay — and will the be first Apple store in the world that sits on water.
“Apple Marina Bay Sands will be at the heart of creativity, a place we’ve made for you to capture your ideas and passions. It will be a space for you to explore, connect and create something new,” the tech giant said on its website.
Apple kicked off hiring for retail roles as early as January this year, and it’s still pushing out new roles this month.
There are a total of 17 job openings in Singapore on Apple’s career page as of today, including roles such as business expert, technical specialist, operations expert, retail specialist, account manager as well as “expert” and “genius”.
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Rumours have been rife surrounding a ‘floating’ glass orb at Marina Bay Sands (MBS).
Various reports have speculated that Apple will be opening a new flagship Apple store in Singapore, housed in that mysterious dome-like structure that hovers above the Marina Bay waters.
During a recent visit to Singapore, Apple CEO Tim Cook mentioned that Singapore “could use a third store” as its Orchard store was “pretty full”.
Moreover, The Straits Times reported in March last year that Apple was planning to open two new stores in Singapore — one in Jewel Changi Airport and another at MBS.
If the rumours are indeed true, the MBS site will be Apple’s third Singapore store. As the first two stores are housed within shopping malls, this alleged new flagship store could be its first standalone store here.
Details are definitely sketchy at this point, but rumours suggest that the floating orb is designed by Foster and Partners — they have designed several Apple stores, including its first Singapore store at Orchard Road.
It’s also interesting to note that this particular photo has been shared on a local forum, which suggests that local engineering firm Sterling has some involvement with the Apple store at MBS.
According to its website, some of its projects include Grab HQ and the Aerial Walk at Gardens By The Bay.
A Potential Attraction In S’pore
The unique dome-like structure alone is architecturally interesting, and it’s exciting to see how its interior would look like. So far, all Apple stores feature a minimalist and sleek design, much like its products.
This “island” store at MBS is also said to be linked to the shopping centre by an underwater passageway, similar to the nearby Louis Vuitton maison boutique.
All these combined elements could very well make it one of the most striking Apple retail locations globally.
Regardless, Apple has yet to address any of these rumours and remains notoriously secretive about its store plans. While the site works are noticeably nearing completion, there is no clear indication as to when Apple’s latest store might open.
Apple Is Hiring
Today (28 Jan), Apple posted several open roles on its career page:
The jobs are all listed as retail positions, varying from creative, technical specialist, operations, and business expert roles.
While these job listings do not necessarily suggest roles for the MBS store, it could very well hint at Apple’s rampant hiring to prepare for it.
What do you think? Are you excited for Apple’s potentially new flagship store?
Featured Image Credit: Apple
