Coronavirus: Ikea to temporarily close all UK stores

Ikea, which has stores across the UK – including one in Southampton – will close its stores as a precautionary measure against the threat of coronavirus.

The stores will close at 6pm tomorrow, the firm said.

According to the firm, products can still be browsed online and ordered for delivery.

In a statement, country retail manager and chief sustainability officer, Peter Jelkeby, said the move had been made for the safety of the company’s workforce.

He said: ‘Our thoughts are with all those affected and the people working tirelessly to care for them. At 6pm on Friday, March 20, we will temporarily close all the Ikea stores across the UK and Ireland to customers.

‘You will continue to be able to browse and purchase our range online or through the app, and have our products delivered directly to you. You will also be able to request a contact-free delivery if you prefer.

‘Co-workers are at the heart of the IKEA business and we are committed to supporting them in the best possible way during this complex and fast-evolving situation. We would like to thank our co-workers and partners for their dedication and hard work through these unprecedented times.’

Customers with pre-booked kitchen appointments will be contacted to by the company to discuss virtual or remote planning options.