American computer giant Apple will open a new shop at The Mall in Cribbs Causeway this Saturday.

The shop will be the firm's 25th UK branch and the second in the city after it opened a store in Quakers Friars last year.

The Mall branch will give customers a chance to try Apple's entire product line, including the new iPod Nano with a built-in video camera, and the iPhone 3GS, as well as its PC and laptop range.

The first 1,000 customers through the doors at 9am on Saturday will each be given a commemorative T-shirt exclusive to the branch.

The store will offer free services designed to help customers get the most out of their Apple products, including face-to-face support and advice at the Genius Bar, hands-on workshops and special programmes for kids.

It is opening in the former HMV branch on the first floor of The Mall. HMV has moved downstairs to the former premises of rival Zavvi.

Apple, whose iPod music player and iPhone mobile phone have become fashion items selling in their millions, has been recruiting staff for the new shop via its website.

Jon Edwards, commercial director of The Mall at Cribbs Causeway, said: "We're delighted that Apple has chosen to open its regional flagship store at The Mall. This international iconic brand is a great addition to our line-up of stores and I'm sure it will do very well here."

The 130-store Mall centre is virtually fully let, with only one empty unit. The Bay Trading unit closed last month after the chain went into administration. Stores that have opened at The Mall this year include Pilgrim, Jigsaw, Virgin Media, GIVe, Quiksilver and New Look Shoes & Accessories. New arrivals in The Avenue, The Mall's new-look dining area, include Café Rouge, Carluccio's, YO! Sushi, Patisserie Valerie and Café Gusto.

Mr Edwards said: "Securing such a strong line-up of new retailers in a period of recession is a very positive vote of confidence in The Mall.

"The fact that GIVe and New Look both chose to test their new concepts here shows how highly The Mall is regarded within the industry. We are now well-placed to capitalise on the improving economic situation."