The pandemic will not prevent IKEA owner from opening new shopping malls

Ingka Centres said the expansion plans remain in place as attendance at its malls recovers quickly after restrictions are lifted.

Today, Ingka Centres, which owns 46 IKEA stores in Europe, Russia, and China, entered the U.S. market in 2021. During the pandemic, attendance at these facilities fell by almost a quarter, resulting in a 16 percent drop in tenant sales to $5.4 billion. These are “good results under the circumstances,” the company said.

The company understands that the pandemic is not over and is preparing for new challenges shortly. Nevertheless, the management is optimistic and will not change its plans regarding the opening of new shopping centers and stores.

At the same time, Ingka Centres reduces the emphasis of its work on suburbs and small central areas, adapting to the new model of consumer behavior. The company is now actively looking for suitable properties in about 40 cities. Earlier in 2020, relevant acquisitions were made in London and San Francisco.

According to Managing Director Gerard Groener, “No matter how the so-called ‘new norms’ look, retail and leisure are adapting, and people are adapting to socialization. Once the restrictions were lifted, visitors began to return to the malls, which was a meeting place for them.