Apple to open Stores in Chinese cities where iOS devices are made

Reuter’s reports today that Apple will expand its current five-store presence in China to the industrial cities of Chengdu and Shenzhen. Interestingly, both of those cities are where Foxconn produces iPhones and iPads (or have in the past). The Chengdu plant is where Want China Times (via MCV) reports a riot broke out late last night with male workers “taking advantage of a minor disturbance to address prior grievances.”

The pessimist would say: Now those hundreds of thousands of factory workers can save a few months wage and head across town to buy something they make hundreds of every day.

The optimist would say: Foxconn factories are expanding the middle class and creating more customers for Apple.

What is your opinion?