Samsung's 2 New Premium Experience Stores Come Up Amid Rising Offline Competition

This comes at a time when major smartphone makers are betting big on offline expansion in the country.

Samsung inaugurated two new premium experience stores in Ahmedabad and Lucknow where prospective buyers can get an experience of Samsung’s entire product range through various zones built around the company’s connected ecosystem like SmartThings, smartphones, laptops, audio, gaming and lifestyle televisions. This comes at a time when major smartphone makers are betting big on offline expansion in the country. OnePlus' experience store was opened last week in Bengaluru's Forum Mall and Nothing also opened its first exclusive service in the city ahead of Phone (2)'s unveiling.

The new Samsung store in Ahmedabad is in Palladium Mall while the store in Lucknow is in Lulu Mall. The stores have been opened in these areas that are said to have become a hub for Gen Z and millennials. The Samsung Premium Experience Store in Ahmedabad spans 3,500 square feet and the one in Lucknow is spread across 1,200 square feet.

The stores would host a variety of Galaxy workshops under the "Learn @ Samsung" programme for consumers. This would include hands-on workshops around consumer passion points such as digital art, doodling, photography, videography and fitness. Apart from immersive tech experiences, these stores would also offer deals for buyers. Those visiting the stores within the first week of opening would get assured gifts on purchases of Rs 20,000 and above, two times loyalty points and Galaxy Buds 2 for Rs 2,999, on purchase of select Samsung products.

To recall, last month, OnePlus' new experience store, which is a Mercedes bus was announced, carrying a range of OnePlus products, including the OnePlus 11 Concept. Other products showcased were the flagship OnePlus 11 lineup, and the new OnePlus Pad, among others. Samsung is also said to be readying new "Experiential" stores, in a bid to expand its offline footprint in the country. Apple is also likely to open three more exclusive offline stores in India. The tech giant opened its first official stores in India in Mumbai's BKC and New Delhi's Saket in April.