Ikea to close one of its biggest UK stores affecting 450 jobs

IKEA will close one of its biggest UK stores, putting 450 jobs at risk, as it aims to open smaller shops closer to city centres.

The Swedish furniture retailer will shutter its branch in Tottenham, north London, it announced this morning.

Bosses said they will try and ensure the 450 staff will be offered positions elsewhere.

They also said Ikea is creating 600 jobs in London before the store closes.

Ikea said it is planning to open smaller shops in the capital as it moves away from its famous warehouse-style stores.

It has recently launched a small branch in Hammersmith, west London and has plans to open in the old Topshop store in Oxford Street.

Ikea’s smaller shops will stock a reduced range of products and will also sell Swedish food.

The retailer also blamed the decision on the rise of online shopping during the pandemic.

That trend means the large store’s long-term viability is under threat.

It cited development plans for the area as another reason for the closure.

“Last year, online represented almost half of the retailers’ total sales and the demand for different services as well as convenient deliveries accelerated,” an Ikea spokesperson said.

“This, combined with the redevelopment of the area where the store is located, prompted the retailer to assess the long-term viability of the site.”

The company will now consult with the 450 workers whose jobs are at risk due to the planned closure.

Peter Jelkeby, Ikea’s UK and Ireland boss, said: “The decision to propose closing the Tottenham store has not been taken lightly but we believe it is the right thing to do for our customers and business as we strengthen our position for the future.

“We will do everything we can to support the co-workers affected and our hope is that as many as possible will continue their career journey with us.”

It was not immediately clear when the Tottenham store will shut permanently.

We have asked Ikea when it will close and we will update this article when we have the details.

There are other large stores in or near London, including Greenwich, Wembley, Croydon and Lakeside.

You can find your nearest Ikea store by using its online branch locator.

The retailer announced last year that prices could rise as much as 50% as shoppers face a cost of living crunch.

But one savvy saver has revealed how to find perfect condition Ikea goods for less cash.

If you’re an Ikea fan, you should check out these top tips for bagging a bargain from the furniture store.