IKEA: Transforming Homes Worldwide IKEA has revolutionized home furnishing since 2008 as the world's largest furniture retailer. With over 460 stores across 60+ countries, IKEA's affordable, stylish flat-pack furniture has changed how people furnish their homes.
The Birth of a Furniture Giant 1 1943 17-year-old Ingvar Kamprad founds IKEA in Älmhult, Sweden 2 Name Origin IKEA comes from founder's initials (IK) plus Elmtaryd and Agunnaryd 3 Initial Business Began as a small mail-order company selling pens, wallets, and picture frames
Early Growth & Development Late 1940s IKEA adds furniture to its product lineup 1951 First IKEA catalogue published, dramatically boosting sales 1953 First furniture showroom opens in Älmhult
First Official IKEA Store Grand Opening First official IKEA store launched in 1958 in Älmhult, Sweden Industry Leader At launch, it was the largest furniture display in all of Scandinavia Customer Experience Revolutionary concept allowing customers to touch, feel and test products before purchase
Global Expansion Journey Nordic Beginnings First international stores opened in Norway (1963) and Denmark (1969) European Growth Expanded into Central Europe in the 1970s, with Switzerland in 1973 North American Entry Reached Canada in 1976 and the United States in 1985 Current Leaders Germany and USA now top markets with 55 stores each
The IKEA Business Model Flat-Pack Design Self-assembly furniture reduces shipping and storage costs Store Experience Large warehouses and immersive showrooms create unique shopping journey Democratic Design Five principles: form, function, quality, sustainability, and low price
IKEA Philosophy & Culture Vision Statement "To create a better everyday life for the many people" Core Values Simplicity, innovation, and cost-consciousness drive decisions Swedish Identity Distinctive Scandinavian branding permeates products and stores
Commitment to Sustainability Climate Positive Goal Ambitious target to become climate positive by 2030 Renewable Energy Major investments in solar and wind power Materials Innovation Products increasingly made from sustainable or recycled materials
Iconic Products & Experience BILLY Bookcase Over 60 million units sold since 1979, symbolizing IKEA's simple functionality POÄNG Chair Iconic bentwood design celebrates comfort and Scandinavian aesthetics Intuitive Instructions Famous wordless assembly guides empower customers worldwide
IKEA's Impact & Future Global Impact Transformed how the world shops for and thinks about furniture Digital Transformation Embracing e-commerce and augmented reality shopping experiences Continued Mission Unwavering focus on affordability, design excellence, and sustainability CONCLUSION