IKEA to open small format store in downtown Toronto
Ingka Centres and IKEA Canada are to open a first IKEA store in downtown Toronto.
The move follows Ingka Centres’ acquisition of the Aura Retail Podium in the city’s Yonge Street, where IKEA Canada will open a smaller-format store in late 2021/early 2022.
The companies said the new shop will be similar to a traditional IKEA store but will focus more on small-space living solutions to meet the needs of Toronto residents.
The shop will offer more than 2,000 IKEA products for purchase and immediate takeaway, while larger furniture items will be on display and available for home delivery. It will also feature a new food concept and an array of services to support a seamless shopping experience. No self-serve furniture will be available.
Michael Ward, chief executive and chief sustainability officer at IKEA Canada, said: “IKEA Canada is committed to becoming more accessible by bringing our stores closer to where Canadians live, work and socialise. As one of the fastest growing cities in North America with a vibrant and diverse community, Toronto was a natural choice for us to launch our first downtown store. As life at home continues to evolve and take on new meaning, we’re excited to bring our passion, knowledge and home furnishing expertise to downtown Toronto.”
Aura Retail Podium comprises 12,270 square metres of gross leasable area across three floors. Ingka Centres will redevelop the property into a new destination, with the IKEA Toronto Downtown Store set to occupy 6,148 square metres of space on the ground and second floors.
IKEA has previously opened 10 smaller IKEA stores in major cities like Paris, Moscow, Shanghai, London and New York.
