LG Group, which recently shut down its cellular business, plans to capitalize on its relationship with Apple, industry insiders said Tuesday amid rumors that its electronics subsidiary could sell the U.S. tech titan’s products in its retail stores.
LG reportedly ran a special sale for iPhones, iPads and other Apple products on Lifecare, its online shopping mall for corporate employees.
For the first time, the group offered mobile devices from another smartphone manufacturer for its employee purchasing program, reports the Yonhap news agency.
The move came amid growing speculation that LG Electronics could sell Apple products to local consumers in its 400 stores nationwide after exiting the cellular business.
In April, LG Electronics announced that it would withdraw from the smartphone business by July after years of losses.
Industry insiders said LG Group wants to strengthen relationships with Apple for its future growth. The group already supplies Apple with electronic parts, including displays and camera modules.
Recently, the electric vehicle parts (EV) joint venture with Magna International Inc., LG Magna e-Powertrain Co., was linked to Apple’s possible development of self-driving cars.
LG Uplus, the Group’s telecommunications division, also began developing an Apple iOS compatible office work system for employees using iPhones.
After LG exited the cellular business, Apple has sought to expand its presence in the South Korean smartphone market, which is dominated by its arch-rival Samsung Electronics.
Apple recently launched a trade-in program in South Korea to woo consumers with LG smartphones.
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