Ikea to reopen 19 UK stores with lockdown shopping measures

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Ikea has confirmed that it will reopen 19 of its stores in England and Northern Ireland in line with government guidance from June 1.

After closing its doors to the public due to the coronavirus pandemic on March 20, Ikea has taken the decision to reopen 19 stores in England and Northern Ireland as well as click-and-collect services in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, with a phased approach from next Monday.

As government regulations differ in Scotland, Wales and Ireland, all stores in those areas will remain closed. Its smaller London Planning Studios and Order & Collection points will remain closed for the time being.

The reopened stores will have a staggered entry system where only one adult and one child from the same household are allowed in at a time.

Ikea has also implemented a one-way system around the store which will be enforced by social distancing wardens.

The furniture retailer is encouraging customers to come with ready-made lists and to bring their own bags. It has also reiterated its 365-day return policy and recommended that customers wishing to make returns come back at a later date.

While its restaurants, play areas and planning services will remain closed, Ikea will reopen its Swedish Food Market and Bistro with a takeaway service.

Ikea UK country chief executive and chief sustainability officer Peter Jelkeby said: “We’re looking forward to warmly welcoming customers and co-workers back into our stores from June 1. 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.”

The Ikea stores that are open from June 1 are: