Does this have something to do with a new product launch? Or is this merely about a pre-holiday sales rush plan? With the holidays approaching quickly and Apple pulling out all the stops to ensure blockbuster sales in the final quarter of 2013, there are plenty of reasons why Apple has decided to close retail stores early next weekend.

It should be noted, however, that the unorthodox closing times are global in nature. From North America to Europe and down through Asia, Apple stores across the planet are poised to shut their doors earlier than usual next weekend.