IKEA "Mini"

I wrote yesterday about natural and obvious new product line extensions … the life blood of a thriving and growing brand. Today I wanted to highlight another natural and obvious line extension, this time from retailer IKEA.

Now you might say that introducing a new retail format in the middle of a pandemic that requires quarantine might not be a great idea. But look closely at this one. The new IKEA is a smaller format, “city edition,” “mini” version of its larger counterpart. More focused inventory for folks who live in the city. Smaller furniture. Storage. Pieces that fit together in smaller places.

Makes sense. Especially when you see that consumers have been shopping for home furnishing and accessories perhaps like never before. They’re home! They want a refresh! A new couch might be just the trick to live out the remaining months.

Makes sense. IKEA is known for this kind of adaptability. Flexibility. Warmness. Home.

Smaller formats mean quicker shopping trips too. Makes sense.

I love a good line extension, and this is a good one! First up is Queens, NY which is a first for the brand in this borough of New York City. Many more to come, I am sure of that!

What’s your experience? JIM