VANCOUVER – Canada’s Apple Hub has just opened in Vancouver, and people can’t get enough. Located in the city’s downtown core at the intersection of West Howe and Georgia, the Apple Pacific Centre is eye-catching and beautifully designed. Our team headed to the west coast to check out the grand opening and see what people had to say!
The two-level store boasts a team of 240 people, speaking 36 different languages, so anyone can get the support they need while shopping!
With a showroom on the main floor, shoppers can check out the latest range of Apple products, like the iPhone 14 and the new range of Apple Watches. The second floor of the new Flagship location features a Forum and a video wall, screening “Today at Apple” sessions. The free sessions will teach viewers things like coding, framing shots, and video editing. They also have sessions for those who aren’t well versed in technology, teaching users how to use the virtual assistant features on Apple products like iPhones. Those interested can also book “Today at Apple” sessions with colleagues, friends and family.
The Apple Pacific Centre has some noteworthy eco-friendly elements. Like all Apple facilities, the Pacific Centre runs on 100% renewable energy. Additionally, the new space features a 40+ foot living wall with 144 species of local plants, creating habitats for bees!
Reaction to the Apple Pacific Centre
When asked how they felt about the new centre, some Canadian celebrities in attendance were excited to see the new centre open on the west coast.
“I think it just means it’s another outlet for the kids and for youthful people to be here and express themselves,” said Canadian artist Boslen.
“I feel like corporation and creative has always been a clash to some people, but when you come to a place like this where it’s a mix, and it’s open, I think it’s refreshing,” he continued.
“The thing I like the most about it, at least what they’re trying to do, it’s one of the reasons I love being part of Apple Music, it’s about creating a space for creative people to come and do the thing,” said George Stroumboulopoulos.
“Not just for the big stars that we hear about. If you’re walking by and you’re not feeling centred in your life at 13, 14 years old, 17, 30 and you want a creative outlet, but you’ve never been encouraged to, you’ve never found a place to do it. The idea that this feels like a community centre vibe, I feel that’s what companies should be doing,” Stroumboulopoulos continued, adding that he feels more companies should do this.
Dancer Donte Colley is also a fan of the new centre.
“It’s so beautiful. It’s really nice to see a new space be built for new creatives and new people interested in new things,” Colley shared.
“We couldn’t be more excited to build on our longstanding history in Canada and welcome customers to the beautiful Apple Pacific Centre in Vancouver, a community filled with creativity and deep culture,” said Deirdre O’Brien, Apple’s senior vice president of Retail + People.
“Facing the Vancouver Art Gallery and its bustling public plaza, the new Apple Pacific Centre was designed to be a hub for community, a place that brings people together with the expert care and support from our fantastic team,” O’Brien continued.
BG takes you on a tour of the new centre on this episode of News You Can Use. Let us know in the comments, would you like to see a space like this open in Toronto?