APRIL FOOLS: IKEA plans to launch linear store format

This follows customer complaints about getting lost in its current layout.

IKEA is planning a new store design that will replace its familiar maze-like layout with a linear format.

The proposed store will stretch nearly two kilometers, combining showroom and warehouse spaces in one long, straight path. The change comes in response to customer complaints about getting lost in IKEA's current winding aisles.

The new store will feature a single floor, with customers entering at one end and walking straight to the exit. A hop-on, hop-off travelator will help shoppers move quickly through the store, based on feedback to reduce walking time. The food court will be located in the middle, with a "fast lane" travelator for those wanting to eat without shopping the entire store.

Despite the layout change, the store will maintain IKEA's windowless design.

The decision follows an incident at an undisclosed IKEA location, where a lost customer was found trapped inside after hours. The shopper had climbed into a basket of toy snakes in confusion.

The company said it is also exploring other unique store designs, including one styled like a giant meatball.

CORRECTION — 13 June 2025
This article reported an April Fools’ parody as fact, stating IKEA would replace its maze-like store layout with a single-aisle “linear” design. IKEA has confirmed to Retail Asia that the guided path remains core, whilst the company merely experiments with shortcuts. For the accurate story, read our follow-up feature HERE.