Dive Summary:
- Samsung has announced the hiring of a former Apple retail store designer to help lead Samsung’s expansion into the U.S. retail landscape.
- Former Apple design executive Tim Gudgel has taken over the role of vice president and general manager of retail sales operations for Samsung.
- Samsung currently has an in-store agreement with Best Buy to showcase its products through “Samsung Experience” shops but is aiming to develop an even greater retail presence.
Dive Insight:
In November, a federal jury concluded that Samsung owes Apple an additional $290 million over mobile-device patents, and the two companies are currently locked in litigation over allegations of infringement. Currently, Apple has been awarded $930 million to be paid by Samsung, but it looks as though Samsung may have won a consolation prize by prying away Gudgel to help lead its planned retail expansion push.
