According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple is working on a program called Retail Flex that will allow its employees to work remotely for a few weeks. The report states that the employees will be working remotely at times, while the rest of the time they would work in the store.Even if it is only a partial shift, having employees who have worked in stores for years, moving to remote work is a major change. This likely stems from the pandemic. Apple doesn't appear to be just jumping in. According to reports, Apple is starting a pilot program with employees that will last at most six months. Participants will be paid the same salary plus extra for internet access and office equipment.It is possible that Apple will adopt a retail model with fewer employees, but it won't be the only one. Physical stores will need to adapt to the new shopping habits of people who prefer to shop online and pick up in-store.Apple's non-retail employees will need at least some office hours. Employees must return to work at least three days per week. Apple workers were not happy with the idea of having to return to work, but they will continue to use the hybrid model.It is hard to imagine retail workers working remotely during the launch of the iPhone.This contrast is interesting, with Apple possibly lowering its retail workforce at all times and other retail moves it has made. It has been rebranding its stores as town halls, where classes and events can take place over the years. And it recently transformed two historical buildings in Rome, Los Angeles, into luxurious stores. With this news, it appears that there may be fewer workers.Bloomberg claims that Apple's plans are to increase employee presence in response to retail demand. It is hard to imagine employees working from home during the iPhone launch, but we might soon witness the first steps towards a new, more online-focused Apple Store experience.
