IKEA’s global footprint: How the Swedish giant is shaping home living across continents

Since its founding in 1958 in Älmhult, Sweden, IKEA has grown from a small Swedish business into a global leader in the furniture industry, known for its affordable, stylish, and functional home solutions. Today, the company is in more than 60 markets worldwide, adapting its product lines to cater to diverse consumer needs, living spaces, and cultural preferences.

According to World Population Review, in Germany, IKEA has established itself as a household name, with 55 stores—the most significant number in any country. Germany serves a population of 84 million, and the brand remains a core market. A 2022 survey revealed that 64% of Germans actively purchase IKEA products, reinforcing the company’s strong foothold in Europe.

The United States, another key market, is home to 52 IKEA stores, primarily concentrated along the coasts and in the Midwest. Unlike European cities, where IKEA stores are often located in suburban areas with extensive public transport connections, the brand has had to adapt to the car-dependent culture of American shoppers, positioning stores near highways and urban centres.

In China, where living spaces are typically more compact than in Western markets, IKEA has strategically adjusted its product offerings to suit the needs of urban dwellers better. Smaller, multi-functional furniture pieces, innovative storage solutions, and space-efficient designs cater to the demands of city life, reflecting the company’s ability to localise its approach to different markets.

Perhaps the most striking example of IKEA’s global expansion is its largest store in Manila, Philippines. Spanning a staggering 700,000 square feet, the massive retail space is equivalent to 150 basketball courts, making it not just a furniture store but an immersive shopping experience. The store includes a warehouse, showroom, restaurant, and an e-commerce fulfilment hub, demonstrating IKEA’s investment in integrated retail solutions for the modern consumer.

With its commitment to affordability, sustainability, and innovation, IKEA continues to adapt to changing lifestyles and consumer preferences, reinforcing its position as a dominant force in the global home furnishings industry. As the company explores new store formats, digital expansions, and sustainability initiatives, its influence on how people furnish and experience their homes is set to remain strong for decades to come.