IKEA invests in shipping containers to address ongoing disruption
Swedish home furnishing retailer Ikea is the latest among the big box stores to admit that they are taking matters into their own hands in an attempt to elevate some of the disruptions and global shortages the company has been experiencing.
Ikea confirmed to U.S. broadcaster NBC News that it had started shipping goods using chartered vessels. The company also reported that it is purchasing containers to ensure the availability of boxes to move merchandise to its stores.
An IKEA spokesperson said: “Like many retailers, we are experiencing ongoing challenges with our supply chains due to Covid-19 and labour shortages, with transport, raw materials and sourcing all impacted.
“In addition, we are seeing higher customer demand as more people are spending more time at home.”
The retailer also said they are experiencing “low availability” in some of its ranges including mattresses.
The spokesperson added: “Going forward, we’re constantly looking for more opportunities to secure product availability for our customers and apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.”
It comes as retailers and hospitality businesses continue to see disruption in the sector with an estimated shortfall of 100,000 drivers.
