Ikea confirms Oxford Street flagship opening May 1

Ikea has confirmed that its new flagship store on Oxford Street in London will open on May 1, 2025, after significant delays due to unexpected renovations, including water damage. The store will occupy three floors of a Grade II listed building, offering a 5,800 square meter retail space that includes a showroom, market hall, and a 130-seater Swedish Deli. The renovations, which began in 2022, aimed to enhance the building's environmental performance and preserve its historic features. Ikea's CEO stated the store aims to inspire home design for both locals and tourists and will provide complimentary design consultations. The opening is seen as a pivotal step in revitalizing Oxford Street, which has struggled with declining retail activity in recent years. Ikea received an overwhelming response for job applications, highlighting the store's anticipated popularity in a recovering retail environment.