IKEA opens small format store at the new Livat Hammersmith scheme
IKEA has launched a new small format store in London’s Hammersmith as part of the newly opened Livat Hammersmith scheme.
The launch marks the first time that IKEA home furnishing accessories will be available to buy on the UK high street. The store has been designed around the needs of people shopping in city centres, with a free-flowing layout and a Swedish deli situated at the edge of the store to allow busy commuters to ‘grab and go.
The retailer is planning to invest £1 billion into London over the next three years.
Peter Jelkeby, country retail manager and chief sustainability officer at IKEA UK & Ireland, said: “Everything we do starts with our customers. Over the next three years, we will continue to transform as we respond to their needs and dreams, today and tomorrow. As one of the most innovative and exciting markets in the world for retail and ecommerce, we will step up our omnichannel investments in London with a simple goal: to become more customer centric, so that people can shop with us for a better, more sustainable life at home, whenever, wherever and however they choose.”
Previously known as Kings Mall, which was acquired in 2020 by IKEA’s Ingka Centres business, Livat Hammersmith will aim to provide Londoners with the opportunity to “have fun, to experience new things, and to eat and shop.” A second scheme is being developed in downtown San Francisco.
Ingka Centres’ managing director Cindy Andersen said: “We know that our visitors and the wider community want more spaces in which to meet, shop, socialise and work which are fun, human and eco-friendly. Livat Hammersmith will offer just that.
“Our urban meeting places have been designed to reflect the needs of those living in city centres, with more regular visits and fewer journeys by car. This new vibrant offer provides places where everyone feels welcome and will be encouraged to come more often to explore amazing experiences while supporting the local community and the planet.”
Livat Hammerson will also offer a lively programme of events and pop-up outlets. This will include a bookable ‘pay-by-the-hour’ adaptive retail space which will be operated by Sook. Other retailers with a presence at the scheme include Lidl, Sainsbury’s, H&M and Primark.
