Ikea is set to open its first "small store" in the former Homebase unit in Harlow (England) on 24 July, marking a new retail format designed for a "simpler, faster shopping experience, just around the corner."
© Tomasz Bidermann | Dreamstime
This launch is the first of three new concept stores planned, with additional locations scheduled for Norwich and Chester in the coming months. The Harlow store will feature a compact layout, including a showroom, market hall, and dedicated planning service areas.
Around 5,000 products will be on display, with 3,000 available for immediate purchase and the remainder accessible via online order. Customers can also shop pre-loved Ikea items and exchange unwanted products for store credit.
The store will include The Swedish Bite café, enhancing the customer experience.
Ikea UK and Ireland chief executive and sustainability officer Peter Jelkeby described the opening as a "landmark moment" for the retailer's evolving retail strategy, aiming to "serve more people in more places." He added that Ikea looks forward to becoming part of the thriving Harlow community.
Source: www.retailgazette.co.uk
