IKEA downsizing and smaller stores are set to hit high streets across UK

IKEA could be swapping its superstores for smaller outlets to be closer to its customers, it has been claimed today.
IKEA in Bletchley, Milton KeynesIKEA in Bletchley, Milton Keynes
IKEA in Bletchley, Milton Keynes

That’s good news for shoppers in our area who currently have to travel to Milton Keynes for their nearest IKEA store.

The Swedish furniture giant is said to be heading to the high streets after frustrated customers said they want to travel fewer miles to get to the nearest store.

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People in Milton Keynes can just nip down the road to their Bletchley-based store - which is also the closest location for people as far afield as Norfolk, more than two years.

Gillian Drakeford, IKEA’s UK country manager, said: “We know that consumers in the UK like to shop across many channels and are using multiple devices.

“Our customers are also telling us that with 18 stores in the UK, we are often too far away.

“Order and Collection Points give us the opportunity to trial new ways of being more accessible.”

IKEA has already opened similar trial formats in Spain, Norway and Finland. Bosses hope the smaller stores will bridge the gap between online and in-store shopping.