IKEA plans to close Tottenham store
IKEA is to close its Tottenham store in London’s Edmonton as part of a transformation plan for the capital.
The furniture retailer said the decision follows an assessment of its presence in London in line with people’s changing shopping behaviours. Last year, online accounted for almost half of IKEA’s total sales and this, combined with demand for different services, convenient deliveries and a redevelopment of the Tottenham area, has prompted an assessment of the long-term viability of the site.
IKEA has committed to investing more than £1 billion in London over the next three years as it looks to improve the way it meets the needs of customers. This has included the opening of a new, smaller format store in Hammersmith last month. In addition, a new fulfilment centre in Dartford will launch in December to enable the retailer to unlock 24-hour deliveries in London. In autumn 2023, IKEA will also open its long-awaited store on London’s Oxford Street.
The retailer will be entering a consultation period with the 450 workers affected by the proposal, although it said it is committed to retaining as many as possible. The business will create over 600 vacancies in London before the proposed store closure, which will be offered to the Tottenham employees as a priority.
Peter Jelkeby, country retail manager and chief sustainability officer at IKEA UK & Ireland, said: “Taking care of our co-workers is our highest priority and we will lead with respect and compassion throughout the process. 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.”
In addition to Tottenham and Hammersmith, IKEA operates London stores in Croydon, Greenwich, Lakeside and Wembley which will all receive investment to support increased demand for faster and more sustainable home deliveries.
The retailer said the Tottenham store will remain open with normal opening hours until further notice.
