The IKEA Oxford Street store officially opened this week, bringing fresh energy to one of London’s most iconic shopping areas. IKEA has taken a bold step to reimagine urban retail while promoting a more walkable city. This flagship location offers 6,000 products and aligns with efforts to make Oxford Street pedestrian-only.
IKEA Store Begins New Retail Era
IKEA chose the former Topshop site at 214 Oxford Street for its latest urban concept. By using around 5,800 square meters of space across three floors, the IKEA store adapts to city life.
Unlike traditional IKEA locations in retail parks, this store focuses on small-scale living. Designers built room sets tailored to flats, shared homes, and compact home offices. These layouts reflect how many Londoners live today.
Exploring the IKEA Store Experience
Customers will find much more than flat-packed furniture inside the IKEA store. The brand created several new features designed to enhance shopping in a busy city.
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Curated Shops highlight themed collections chosen by London locals.
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Live Studio hosts cooking demos, upcycling tutorials, and creative workshops.
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Swedish Deli includes 130 seats and serves signature dishes like meatballs and plant-based options.
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Re-Shop and Re-Use offers discontinued and second-hand IKEA products, supporting sustainability.
Visitors can immediately buy over 3,500 items, while larger furniture orders are available through delivery or in-store pickup.
IKEA Oxford Street Store Supports a Pedestrian-Friendly Vision
CEO Peter Jelkeby has expressed strong support for the Mayor of London’s plan to make Oxford Street car-free. He believes this change will improve both the environment and shopping experience. According to Jelkeby, walkable streets invite longer visits and boost local businesses.
Importantly, Transport for London has opened a consultation on this pedestrianisation plan. Locals can share their feedback until May 2. IKEA’s stance may influence other brands to support similar city-focused initiatives.
Economic Benefits From the IKEA Oxford Street Store
The IKEA Oxford Street store is expected to attract 60,000 visitors per week. This increase in foot traffic will likely help revive the surrounding area, which has seen rising vacancy rates and an increase in lower-tier shops.
Retail experts see this move as a turning point. IKEA’s decision signals confidence in Oxford Street’s future. Other major retailers may follow its lead, bringing back high-quality shopping experiences.
Future Growth After IKEA Oxford Street Store Launch
IKEA has no plans to stop with Oxford Street. The company has already announced future city-centre locations in Brighton, Norwich, Chester, and Harlow. These stores will follow a similar model — accessible, urban, and sustainability-focused.
By shifting to central locations, IKEA makes it easier for people to shop closer to home. The brand also aligns with changing lifestyles, where consumers value time and eco-friendly choices.
The launch of the IKEA store shows how retail can adapt to modern urban challenges. IKEA has combined thoughtful design with community support and environmental goals. Most importantly, it has backed a vision for a cleaner, more accessible Oxford Street.
As footfall rises and public interest grows, this store may inspire other retailers to reconsider how they operate in large cities. IKEA’s bold move could lead to a new era of central, sustainable shopping.
