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IKEA Opens on Oxford Street, Backs Pedestrianization Plan
Table of Contents
- 1. IKEA Opens on Oxford Street, Backs Pedestrianization Plan
- 2. IKEA UK CEO Supports Oxford Street Pedestrianization
- 3. More Than Just a Store: IKEA’s Oxford street Experience
- 4. IKEA’s UK Expansion Plans and Economic Concerns
- 5. How daos IKEA differentiate itself in the highly competitive furniture retail market, both online and offline?
- 6. Interview: IKEA’s Oxford Street Opening and the Future of Retail with Peter Jekelby
- 7. A Conversation with Peter Jekelby, IKEA UK CEO
- 8. Expanding IKEA’s Footprint and Navigating Economic Challenges
- 9. A Question for Our Readers
By Archyde News Staff | Published: 2025-04-30
London‘s iconic Oxford Street has a new tenant: IKEA. The Swedish furniture giant has officially opened its doors in the former Topshop flagship location, bringing its signature flat-pack furniture and Swedish meatballs to the heart of London’s shopping district. The opening, delayed by 18 months, is seen as a key step in the rejuvenation of Oxford Street.
Adding another layer to the story, IKEA’s UK boss, Peter Jekelby, has publicly supported the proposed pedestrianization of Oxford Street, a plan championed by London Mayor Sadiq Khan.
IKEA UK CEO Supports Oxford Street Pedestrianization
Jekelby, speaking from within one of the store’s model room displays, stated his belief that pedestrianizing Oxford Street would be “good for the street” and would “make it easier to move around.” His endorsement aligns with Mayor Khan’s vision for a revitalized shopping experience.
Khan welcomed the IKEA opening as “a huge vote of confidence in London, in our economy and in our plans to rejuvenate Oxford Street.” He emphasized that attracting prominent businesses is essential for “creat[ing] new jobs and increas[ing] footfall.”
Did you know? London Mayor Sadiq Khan has been a vocal advocate for pedestrianizing Oxford Street to improve the shopping experience and reduce traffic congestion.
The mayor also noted ongoing consultations regarding the pedestrianization proposals, urging the public to participate by May 2nd, stating they are “bold proposals” subject to public review, adding “so I encourage everyone to have their say.”
More Than Just a Store: IKEA’s Oxford street Experience
The three-story IKEA outlet offers more than just furniture. It boasts:
- A 130-seat Swedish deli
- A dedicated live events space
- One-on-one design services for kitchens, bedrooms and living rooms
The store aims to captivate visitors with animated displays showcasing woodland scenes, buzzing bees, and everyday Londoners discussing their home design choices.Some of these designs are even recreated within the store itself.
Pro Tip: Planning a visit? Consider going during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the unique features of the new IKEA store.
Customers can choose from approximately 6,000 IKEA products, with around 3,500 items available for immediate purchase. The remaining items can be ordered for home delivery.
IKEA’s UK Expansion Plans and Economic Concerns
Beyond Oxford Street,IKEA is committed to expanding its presence in the UK. Jekelby outlined plans for a significant new site in brighton this summer, as well as smaller outlets in Norwich, Chester, and Harlow in Essex.
“After that we will take stock,” he saeid, indicating a measured approach to future growth. “There are still places and space that we could be present in.” Reflecting on the current economic climate, he added, IKEA is “about affordability” and so could thrive even in a time of “thinner wallets”.
Jekelby also addressed broader economic issues, urging the UK government to foster market stability and avoid burdening retailers with additional costs, particularly in light of increased employer national insurance charges.
He specifically called for a reevaluation of business rates, arguing they need to be “more fit for purpose” and avoid “penalising certain ways of shopping.” He noted that brick-and-mortar stores currently face higher property-based taxes compared to online-only retailers.
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How daos IKEA differentiate itself in the highly competitive furniture retail market, both online and offline?
Interview: IKEA’s Oxford Street Opening and the Future of Retail with Peter Jekelby
A Conversation with Peter Jekelby, IKEA UK CEO
Archyde News: Mr. Jekelby, thank you for joining us. The Oxford Street IKEA opening has been highly anticipated. Can you share your initial thoughts on the store’s launch and its potential impact on the area?
Peter Jekelby:
It is a true honor to be a part of this new chapter in London! This Oxford Street store is a testament to our commitment to the UK market.We believe it will reinvigorate the shopping experience on Oxford Street, bringing a fresh perspective and much-needed affordability to the area. We’ve put a lot of effort and investment into making it a great place to shop and explore.
Archyde News: Your support for the pedestrianization of Oxford Street is noteworthy. How do you see this initiative aligning with IKEA’s vision for the store and the overall customer experience?
peter Jekelby:
We strongly believe that pedestrianizing Oxford Street will significantly enhance the shopping experience. It will create a safer, more pleasant habitat for customers. It makes it easier for people to spend time in the district and will boost the local economy. This aligns with IKEA’s values, which prioritize accessibility and a great customer experience.
Archyde News: The store offers several unique features,including the Swedish deli and events space.how do these elements contribute to IKEA’s overall brand strategy?
peter Jekelby:
We want to be more than just a furniture store.The deli and events space provide opportunities to immerse customers in our brand’s culture and values. They encourage people to linger, enjoy themselves and discover new aspects of the IKEA brand. The deli is a taste of Sweden and the event’s space helps connect with the local community; these make us stand out and create lasting impressions.
Archyde News: looking ahead, can you tell us a little more about IKEA’s expansion plans in the UK and how these plans are assessed in the current economic climate?
Peter Jekelby:
We are fully committed to expansion in the UK. Following this opening, we have plans for additional stores in Brighton this summer, and in Norwich, Chester, and Harlow in the coming months. I see notable growth opportunities throughout the UK and we are looking at other areas. We need to remain agile and adaptable.Affordability is key, and we’re confident that our product range will be attractive, even during challenging economic times with more people considering their value.
archyde News: You’ve touched on the importance of affordability and market stability. What measures do you believe the government should prioritize to further support retailers amid economic challenges?
Peter Jekelby:
the government can offer significant support by establishing market stability. We also believe that business rates need evaluation so they fit the needs of modern retailers; the current property levels penalise stores and not online businesses, this needs to be addressed. These changes would create a more level playing field and encourage investment.
Archyde News: what message would you like to share directly with the people of London, ahead of the Oxford Street store opening?
Peter Jekelby:
we are delighted to be here! We have put an immense amount of energy to make this store, a fantastic place to visit. I hope that you will truly enjoy experiencing IKEA in this iconic location. We want to be part of the community and encourage everyone to come down, take a look around, and see what we have to offer.
A Question for Our Readers
How do you feel about the future of Oxford Street and similar high streets now and in the face of online shopping, and what changes would you like to see to make high streets more appealing? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
