Apple recruits new store managers on Chinese mainland

Apple Inc is recruiting store managers as the tech giant works to double the number of new stores on the Chinese mainland.

Apple, which faces challenges in China by arch-rival Samsung and local firms like Huawei and Xiaomi, is hiring senior managers for 10 new mainland stores, according to Apple China's website.

Among the new locations, Tianjin, Chongqing, Wuxi, Zhengzhou, Shenyang and Hangzhou don't have Apple stores yet.

At present, Apple has 10 outlets on the Chinese mainland, including four in Shanghai.

Tim Cook, Apple's chief executive, said previously it would double outlets in the world's biggest mobile phone market within two years.

China, including Hong Kong and Taiwan,

About a fifth of Apple?s sales come from the China market including Hong Kong and Taiwan.

The iPhone maker?s revenue increased 13 percent to US$9.3 billion in the latest fiscal quarter ended on March 29.