IKEA has received 3730 applications in just six days for its highly anticipated Oxford Street store. The exceptional interest in the 150 available positions marks the largest-ever response the home furnishing retailer has seen in the UK, shattering all previous recruitment records.
Building on its reputation as an employer of choice, IKEA has consistently invested in its co-worker offering, providing the independently set Real Living Wage of £13.85 per hour alongside comprehensive benefits including flexible work arrangements, enhanced parental leave, and a free healthy meal option served every day.
Successful applicants will be offered multi-skilled roles, working across different departments, says the retailer: "They will work in IKEA's most innovative store yet, combining traditional retail expertise with new digital solutions and sustainable practices."
Matt Gould, market manager for IKEA London City, says: "This extraordinary response demonstrates the incredible appeal of joining the IKEA co-worker family. We're delighted to see such enthusiasm for our most innovative store yet, and we look forward to building a diverse team that will help shape the future of urban retail in London."
IKEA has now closed its application process and will move into the assessment phase. As a values-based employer, IKEA says it looks to recruit based on its culture and values, not just previous experience: "The new co-workers will join an environment of entrepreneurship and togetherness, with IKEA looking for innovative and creative problem-solvers who want to create positive change for both people and the planet."
The store will offer 6000 IKEA products, alongside dedicated spaces for advice and inspiration. As a city store, IKEA Oxford Street will offer a showroom, market hall filled with home furnishing accessories, and a Swedish deli, plus free planning services for kitchens, wardrobes and bathrooms.
Matt concludes: “We’re looking for people from all walks of life to join our new Oxford Street team to help us achieve our mission of creating a better everyday life for the many. Our roles promise to offer variety, from replenishing the store to helping urban dwellers understand their home needs and wants. All co-workers will be given opportunities to learn valuable work and life skills in our first central London store.”
Councillor Geoff Barraclough, Westminster City Council’s Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development, adds: “A recovering Oxford Street is bringing not only top names but good quality jobs to the West End. It is great to see IKEA creating 150 quality jobs and as brands occupy space on Oxford Street, more opportunities will be created. Westminster Employment Service is helping recruit local people to the jobs – part of our pledge to ensure that everyone in Westminster benefits from the economic powerhouse of the West End.”
