Report: Google ‘close’ to finalizing lease for first flagship retail store

The Apple Store is iconic. Microsoft, Samsung, and Razer have a smattering of stores too. And now, the Chicago Tribune reports that maybe — just maybe — Google will finally get in on the brick-and-mortar retail game, too.

According to the publication, Google is planning to open a two-story, 14,000-square-foot retail flagship store in Chicago’s Fulton Market district, and is close to finalizing a lease.

The store will reportedly be located between 845 and 853 W. Randolph Street — in other words, right here:Report: Google cancels plans for first flagship retail store in Chicago

As you can see, the reported store location is really, really close to Google’s Chicago headquarters:

The Tribune says Google’s presence has already ‘played a major role’ in turning Fulton Market into a more upscale neighorhood.  

‘We don’t comment on rumors or speculation,’ Google told CNET, when asked about the building.