IKEA prepares to re-open 19 stores on 1 June
IKEA has said it will be re-opening 19 stores across England and Northern Ireland from 1 June. It will also be phasing in click and collect facilities in the shops.
New measures to protect staff and customers from covid-19 will include limiting the number of customers in-store at any one time, allowing entry to only one adult and child per household, and the introduction of social distancing wardens and a new one way system.
In addition, customers will be encouraged to shop with pre-prepared lists and their own bags.
Initially, all play areas and restaurants will remain closed but customers will be able to purchase IKEA meal items from its Swedish Food Market to prepare at home. Meanwhile, the retailer’s in-store bistros will be open but will operate a contact-free takeaway service.
Peter Jelkeby, UK & IE country chief executive, said: “We’re looking forward to warmly welcoming customers and co-workers back into our stores from 1 June.
“Their health and safety remains our top priority, and that’s why we’ve put in place extensive measures to ensure the safety and comfort of customers and co-workers.
“While the experience might be a little different to before – it’s the same IKEA, with the vision to “create a better everyday life for the many people”, and the ambition to inspire people through our brilliant affordable range and home furnishing advice.
“Throughout lockdown, we’ve had the unique privilege of being a part of people’s everyday lives at home, and we’re committed to continuing doing whatever we can to support our customers and co-workers on this next part of the journey we take together.”
IKEA’s smaller London Planning Studios and order and collection points will remain closed for the time being. In addition , its larger Coventry store that was to permanently close this summer will now not re-open.
