Apple's Linen-Lined Proposal for Grand Central Terminal Store Set for Approval

In a report on the changing dynamics of the retail scene in Manhattan's historic Grand Central Terminal, The New York Times notes that Apple's bid for a retail store in the terminal is likely to be accepted next week. Apple is said to have delivered its proposal in "linen-lined boxes" in order to make a memorable impression.

When Apple proposed opening a store on the balcony overlooking the main hall, it submitted its bid in linen-lined boxes, as if it were a wedding present to transit officials, a source familiar with the application process said. The board is expected to approve the deal at its monthly board meeting next week.

According to the report, many longtime vendors are displeased with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's strict control over the retail aspects of Grand Central Terminal, policies that require vendors to reapply for their space through an extremely competitive process at the end of each lease term. The reapplication process has seen several vendors who had been selling in the landmark terminal for decades ousted as "better" options presented applications for the spaces.

grand central metrazur
Apple is said to be set to occupy space on the East Balcony overlooking the Main Concourse, taking the space of restaurant Metrazur, which reportedly received a buyout to terminate its lease eight years early in what may have been a specific effort to make room for Apple.

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Top Rated Comments

Will do good Avatar
188 months ago
Less chain stores in the Grand Central station, even Apple (I'm, a big fan).

NY need the small mom & pop shop from NY to keep the place special.
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Matthew Yohe Avatar
188 months ago
Looked similar to this I presume?
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
griz Avatar
188 months ago
Linen lined. Talk about arrogance.

More like a touch of class. It's the difference between using white copier paper to print your resume on and using a tinted and watermarked linen textured stock.
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)
halse Avatar
188 months ago
no loss

that restaurant wasn't any good anyway- much better food downstairs, in the oyster bar and the grand central market
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)
res1233 Avatar
188 months ago
Linen-lined? Stylish! Apple seems to have some sort of linen fetish lately.
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)
CTYankee Avatar
188 months ago
Linen lined. Talk about arrogance.

We used to do this all the time when developing prototypes for our marketing department. When we started sending them in linen or silk lined boxes these products started getting more attention than others. It works. And these were boring bathroom products....

Appeal to someone's ego, and they will follow you.
Score: 2 Votes (Like | Disagree)