IKEA Reopens 19 Stores; Coventry Store To Stay Closed

Huge queues formed at IKEA stores across the country yesterday, as the retailer reopened the doors to some of its branches for the first time since 20th March.

The BBC reported that in Warrington, people arrived at 5:40am to queue for when the store opened at 9am.  IKEA said: "Where we've seen strong demand we've taken appropriate decisions to open early for browsing and to temporarily close our car parks to help ease pressure and reduce waiting times," 

"We're incredibly grateful to the public in playing their part to help keep everyone safe."

The following stores are now open: Belfast, Birmingham, Bristol, Croydon, Gateshead, Exeter, Greenwich, Lakeside, Leeds, Manchester, Milton Keynes, Norwich Order & Collection Point, Nottingham, Reading, Sheffield, Southampton, Tottenham, Warrington and Wembley.

For now, in line with the guidance of local authorities, stores in Scotland and Wales remain closed, as do Planning Studios and Collection Points in London.

IKEA also confirmed on its website that it is not going to reopen its Coventry branch which had been earmarked for closure this summer.

IKEA's restaurants will remain closed but its Bistros will be open for takeaways, with the exception of Greenwich).  The Swedish Food Market will also be open. 

The Småland crèche and other indoor and outdoor play areas will remain closed.

Stores are open Mon-Sat: 10:00-20:00 and Sun: 11:00-17:00 (Belfast Sunday opening hours are 12:00-18:00)

A statement on the IKEA website reads: 

"We’re excited to announce from 1st June we welcome you back to our IKEA stores in England and Northern Ireland.

"Of course, the safety of our customers and co-workers remains the highest priority so we have been working hard to welcome you back safely. 

"We’ve introduced new measures so you can enjoy a safe and comfortable shopping experience.

"Due to the need to limit the number of people in store at once, please expect longer waiting times and consider the weather for your trip, as you may need to queue outside.

"We hope to be saying a socially-distanced ‘hej’ to you soon."

Source : Insight DIY Team and IKEA

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