Apple has reportedly signed a 12-year lease for an entire building, along Paris’ historic Avenue des Champs-Élysées. A report from French site MacGeneration [Google Translate] using information from French newspaper Le Figaro, says Apple plans to open a flagship retail store in the lower levels of the seven story building, leaving the upper floors for office space.
The deal for Apple to occupy the Haussmannian building was reportedly struck late last year, following months of negotiations. However, it will likely be awhile before Apple officially moves in, or begins to renovate the structure. The report claims renowned architect Norman Foster will be overseeing the project. Apple will need to obtain the appropriate permits before any remodeling can begin.
Apple has long been rumored to be looking to open a retail location along the Champs-Élysées, with rumors circulating since 2003 that the company was looking for space in the area.
Apple currently has 19 retail outlets in France.