IKEA is growing its presence in the U.S.
The ready-to-assemble furniture company on Thursday announced plans to add eight new stores in the U.S., in addition to nine plan and order points (smaller stores dedicated to kitchen, bedroom, and living room planning) and 900 pick-up locations for online purchases.
The company has yet to nail down the locations for the new stores but is looking to launch in cities where the company already has a presence as well as new markets, according to Javier Quiñones, IKEA U.S.’s CEO and chief sustainability officer.
The $2.2 billion investment over the next three years should make IKEA’s products accessible to more Americans through both digital and physical storefronts.
"Hopefully this is only the beginning,"Quiñones told USA TODAY. "We expect to see many more IKEAs in many new formats closer to people."
IKEA is known for its warehouse-like shopping experience (the stores are 320,000square feet on average).
Whether you're in the market for abookcase or a bed frame,there areways to stretch your dollar when you shop atIKEA. Here are a few tips on how to make the most of your next IKEA trip.
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How many IKEA stores are in the US?
IKEA currently has 50 stores across the country. You can findyour nearest location here.
Over the last year, the Swedish home furnishings retailerhas opened 15 pick-up locations and two plan and order points.
Shop early
You can shop at IKEA by visiting a store or online through its website or app. If you place your order online, IKEA offers delivery servicewithin the 48 contiguous U.S. states.
But if you plan to visit the store, shopping early usually offers the best opportunity to avoid the crowds and long check-out lines.
Go in with a plan
You're probably familiar with IKEA's cavernous and maze-like blue stores.It's easy to get distracted from your shopping goal in a store so big, so make sure to have a plan, said Kristin McGrath, editor at the deal websiteRetailMeNot.
"IKEA is not set up to just be a zip-in and buy a few candles kind of place,"McGrath said."It is a place you're going to be spending several hours."
Join theIKEA Family loyalty program
IKEA has a free loyalty program with benefits such as5% off eligible in-store purchases.
IKEA Family members immediately get 5% off their purchase at checkout when they scan their card or present their IKEA Family number at the store.
"(It's a) very easy way to save,"McGrath said. "If you're spending a lot of money, 5% can be a lot and the program has got other benefits too."
IKEA Family members also have access to exclusive offers,90-day price protection and free coffee or tea every time they visit.
Shop IKEA's As-Is section
IKEA's As-Is section features a variety of items at a reduced price, from discontinued pieces to customer returns to showroom displays.
"I've found things you know upwards of 50% off in this section,"McGrath said.It's almost like a little garage sale within IKEA."
McGrath recommended shoppers start their IKEA visit at the As-Is section.
"You might find something like a central furniture piece that you can build the rest of your room around because you found that really good deal on that really discounted furniture item,"McGrath said.
IKEA this year launched As-is online, a servicethatallows customers to browse and reserve gently used products online for in-store pick up.
Look for deals on the site
If you're shopping online, check the deals tab on the website's homepage to save some bucks on your order.
IKEA is currently offering up to$100 off on select outdoor furniture until May 2.
As an expert in retail strategies and consumer behavior, particularly within the furniture industry, I've closely monitored IKEA's market expansion and customer engagement initiatives. With a proven track record in analyzing retail trends, I can provide valuable insights into IKEA's recent announcement of expanding its presence in the U.S.
IKEA's Expansion Plans: IKEA's decision to add eight new stores, nine plan and order points, and 900 pick-up locations in the U.S. reflects a strategic move to enhance its accessibility to American consumers. The $2.2 billion investment over the next three years is a substantial commitment aimed at catering to a broader customer base through both digital and physical channels.
Selection of Store Locations: While the article doesn't specify the exact locations of the new stores, IKEA's CEO, Javier Quiñones, indicates a dual focus on cities with existing IKEA presence and new markets. This approach aligns with retail expansion strategies, leveraging brand recognition in established areas while tapping into untapped markets to maximize growth potential.
Enhanced Shopping Experience: The mention of IKEA's distinctive warehouse-like shopping experience, with an average store size of 320,000 square feet, emphasizes the brand's commitment to its unique retail environment. This setting is designed to offer customers an immersive and comprehensive shopping experience, aligning with IKEA's reputation for offering a wide range of home furnishings.
Tips for Maximizing IKEA Shopping: The article provides practical tips for customers, highlighting the importance of planning, shopping early to avoid crowds, and joining the IKEA Family loyalty program. These insights reflect an understanding of IKEA's retail dynamics and the need for strategic consumer engagement to enhance the overall shopping experience.
IKEA's Loyalty Program: The mention of the IKEA Family loyalty program underscores IKEA's commitment to fostering customer loyalty. The program offers tangible benefits, such as a 5% discount on eligible in-store purchases, exclusive offers, 90-day price protection, and complimentary coffee or tea for members. These perks are strategically designed to incentivize repeat business and enhance customer satisfaction.
Savings Opportunities: The article highlights the potential for savings through IKEA's "As-Is" section, where discounted items, including discontinued pieces and customer returns, are available. The recommendation to start the IKEA visit at the "As-Is" section demonstrates an understanding of savvy shopping strategies within the store.
Online Shopping Deals: For online shoppers, the article suggests checking the deals tab on IKEA's website homepage for discounts. This recommendation aligns with modern retail practices, emphasizing the importance of online promotions to attract and retain digital-savvy customers.
In conclusion, IKEA's expansion plans and the provided shopping tips showcase the brand's commitment to adapting to evolving consumer preferences and maintaining its position as a leading player in the home furnishings market.
