Ron Johnson, top retail executive for Apple, who is believed to be the mastermind behind Apple’s much successful retail strategy, is planning to leave Apple.
Ron Johnson is all set to join J.C. Penny as the chief executive of the company. This position was earlier occupied by Myron E. Ullman III. According to The New York Times, the switch would be occurring on November 1, 2011. Johnson previously worked as vice president of merchandising for Target.
Johnson initially joined Apple in 2000. He is given much credit for conceptualizing the way in which Apple stores are run. He was the man behind opening of the first Apple store in 2001. It was because of his plan that Apple today, now have more than 300 stores.
According to Ben Reitzes from Barclays Capital – “Apple is still undergoing significant retail expansion plans, expecting to open 40 new stores this year (75% international). The key for Mr. Johnson’s successor, in our opinion, is the ability to continue successfully opening stores in China which is still largely an untapped market for Apple.”
Everyone is buzzing about the consequences that Apple has to face once Johnson leaves. No one seems to say much but it would affect Apple and its stock prices.
What do you feel about the impact on Apple when Johnson leaves – will the system he set behind him sustain in his absence?