Ikea to open Oxford Street retailer subsequent 12 months
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kea has pushed again the opening date for its new Oxford Street retailer to subsequent 12 months because it revealed new particulars concerning the deliberate outlet.
It got here because the Swedish retail large unveiled a 128ft (39m) by 62ft (19m) model of its signature blue Frakta service bag masking the scaffolding of the positioning.
Work on the Oxford Street retailer, which was beforehand residence to Topshop’s flagship London website, began final 12 months.
Ikea initially stated it might open in autumn this 12 months however has now stated it hopes it can open by autumn 2024.
Ingka Investment, the funding arm of the retail group, purchased the Grade II listed constructing at 214 Oxford Street after Topshop proprietor Arcadia fell into administration.
The renovation undertaking on the website is creating a brand new 82,000 sq. toes retailer masking three flooring, together with 4 flooring of workplace area.
The new retailer, providing round 6,000 completely different merchandise, will embrace a showroom, market corridor, and a Swedish deli serving Ikea’s well-known meatballs.
Peter Jelkeby, chief government and chief sustainability officer of Ikea UK, stated: “We’re incredibly excited to be bringing Ikea to the heart of London’s vibrant retail scene on Oxford Street, which is a major milestone in our continued expansion plans across the capital.
“By having a presence at one of the most iconic shopping destinations in the world, we’re taking a significant step forward in our ongoing journey to make it easier to shop with Ikea – whenever, wherever and however customers choose.”
The intensive refurbishment will take extra time than initially anticipated
Ingka Investments managing director Peter van der Poel stated: “When refurbishing this over 100-year-old historic landmark, it’s important for us as an investor to treat the building with care and to preserve its characteristics and atmosphere.
“At the same time, we want to upgrade it to today’s standards with the best possible sustainability credentials.
“To ensure all of this, the extensive refurbishment will take more time than initially anticipated and Ikea Oxford Street city store is now expected to open in 2024.”