IKEA, the multinational group of companies renowned for its ready-to-assemble furniture and home accessories, has made its mark across the globe. With 462 stores operating in 59 countries and 3 territories, IKEA has become a household name in the world of affordable and stylish furnishings. Let's take a closer look at IKEA's impressive global footprint and some of its most notable stores.
The World of IKEA
From Sweden to the World
IKEA's journey began in Sweden in 1958. Today, Sweden boasts a total of 20 IKEA stores, including the world's third largest store in Älmhult. This massive store covers an impressive 55,221 square meters and showcases IKEA's commitment to providing a diverse range of quality products.
International Expansion
IKEA's expansion into new markets outside of Sweden began in 1963 with the opening of its first store in Norway. Since then, IKEA has steadily expanded its presence across Europe, Asia, North America, and beyond. Notable milestones include:
- The first store outside of Scandinavia opened in Switzerland in 1973.
- The first IKEA store in a Chinese-speaking territory was established in Hong Kong in 1975.
- IKEA entered the North American market in 1976 with its first store in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada.
- The first Southeast Asian store opened in Singapore in 1978.
- The first IKEA store in Australia opened its doors in Sydney in 1975.
Innovations and Sustainability
IKEA has always been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability. In recent years, IKEA has been actively working towards reducing its carbon footprint and promoting eco-friendly practices. For example, in 2021, IKEA opened its first eco-friendly store in Vienna, Austria. This store focuses on promoting sustainable transportation and offers zero-emission vehicle delivery.
The Future of IKEA
IKEA's journey is far from over. The company is constantly exploring new markets and expanding its global reach. Some of the future markets for IKEA include:
- New Zealand: IKEA plans to open its first store in Auckland in late 2025.
- Peru: The first IKEA store in Peru is expected to open in 2026 as part of the company's expansion plans in South America.
- Luxembourg: While currently not having a physical store, Luxembourg residents can still enjoy IKEA products through online shopping and delivery.
Conclusion
Throughout its impressive global expansion, IKEA has remained committed to providing affordable, stylish, and sustainable furniture and home accessories. With its extensive network of stores and plans for future expansion, IKEA continues to shape the way we furnish our homes. So whether you're in Sweden or the Philippines, there's always an IKEA store nearby, ready to bring Scandinavian design into your home.