IKEA expands store DCs in West

BURLINGTON, Ontario—Construction begins this month on warehouse expansions at the IKEA Calgary and IKEA Edmonton stores.

The projects will add an average of 29,000 square feet of space to each of the existing warehouses.

The expansion projects will support approximately 270 construction jobs in the province, create new hires at the Edmonton store and represents a total investment of $28 million Canadian.

“We are working diligently to provide our customers from coast-to-coast with an easier and more convenient shopping experience,” said Stefan Sjöstrand, IKEA Canada president. “With sales increasing at both locations, there is a need to expand our warehouses to better serve our valued customers in Alberta.”

Construction on both stores is expected to be completed by summer 2017. The expansion is part of IKEA Canada’s ambition to become more accessible to as many people as possible, with the aim of doubling its presence in Canada by 2025.

“IKEA’s expansion in Calgary is a bright light in our economy,” said Naheed Nenshi, Mayor of Calgary. “This investment shows confidence in Calgarians while creating jobs and opportunity.”

IKEA Canada is also continuing to make investments in renewable energy, products for a sustainable life at home, and is committed to making a difference in the communities where it operates. The purchase of a wind farm in Pincher Creek, Alberta has enabled IKEA Canada to become energy independent five years ahead of its global goal of 2020. It produces more than double IKEA Canada’s total energy consumption.

In response to the devastating wildfire in Fort McMurray, IKEA announced a $100,000 donation of furniture and home furnishings products to assist with immediate relief and long term recovery effort.  Additionally, in response to the ongoing Syrian refugee crisis and Canada’s commitment to welcoming 25,000 refugees, IKEA Canada offered $190,000 to registered Canadian charities supporting the resettlement efforts. Specifically $20,000 was given to the Alberta stores, with up to nearly 20 families directly benefiting.