IKEA is a global home furnishing brand and the world's leading furniture retailer, founded in Sweden in 1943, with more than 450 stores in over 50 markets.
IKEA is a global home furnishing brand and the world's leading furniture retailer, founded in 1943 by Ingvar Kamprad at the age of 17 in rural Småland, Sweden. The company employs more than 10,000 people across more than 450 stores in over 50 markets. Its name is an acronym drawn from Ingvar Kamprad, Elmtaryd (the family farm) and Agunnaryd (his hometown).
The business is built around well-designed, functional and affordable home furnishing solutions, produced with care for people and the environment. Two operating ideas underpin its retail model: the flat-pack packaging concept, which made stylish furniture accessible to millions, and the self-serve warehouse concept, which IKEA describes as a means of democratizing design.
Technical work at the company spans flat-pack packaging design, the self-serve warehouse concept, sustainable product design and digital capabilities, which the company continues to develop while keeping to its heritage. Its stated vision is "to create a better everyday life for the many people", alongside a commitment to sustainability and to smart, sustainable living.
IKEA operates in the home furnishing, furniture retail and retail sectors, with a geographic presence covering Sweden and more than 50 markets worldwide.
