Bronx ‘ripe’ for Apple store, borough leaders tell CEO Tim Cook

Bronx leaders are urging Apple to consider opening a retail store in their borough, noting that the company boasts 10 location in New York City, but none in the Bronx.

“An Apple Store in The Bronx would complete your company’s presence within New York City, while also allowing your company to become part of the continued positive transformation of our borough,” states a letter to Apple CEO Tim Cook dated Oct. 13 and signed by 26 borough leaders.

Apple has one store each in Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island andseven in Manhattan alone.

To woo Cook, the letter went on to mention that nearly $9.5 billion in total development and 54 million square feet of new construction has occurred in the Bronx since 2009, including The Mall at Bay Plaza, The Hub/3rd Avenue and other high-traffic areas such as Fordham Road.

“Few brands are as recognized and admired as Apple, and an “Apple Bronx” location would be another signal to the world that The Bronx is open for business. It is time for The Bronx to get its bite of the Apple!” the letter concluded.

Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. said in a news release that he is hopeful residents will see an Apple store someday. “ABronx location would be mutually beneficial not only to the company, but to the thousands of Bronxites who would take advantage of its services closer to home,” he said.