A history lesson (Ikea)

Member Name: TomandJerry

Product:	Ikea
Date:	02/11/09 (36 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: something for any room in your house

Disadvantages: it's not Harrods

IKEA started off in the woods of southern Sweden and is now a major retailer in 40 countries/territories around the world.

The story goes that in the 1920's, the founder Ingvar Kamprad started selling matches at the age of five (a five year old with matches - yikes) , and by seven, he was selling further afield by bicycle - buying low and selling for a good profit. He expanded to selling flower seeds, cards, decorations, pencils and pens.

As a young man in the 1940's and 50's, he is developing IKEA into a furniture retailer. He explores design, the famous IKEA self-assembly, a catalogue and showroom. In the 60's and 70's new stores open and the brand takes shape. By the 80's IKEA branches out into the USA, Italy, France and the UK. Children's IKEA was introduced in the 1990's, and by 2000 IKEA was in Japan and Russia.

Departments cover your whole house, from top to toe, from large items to small, all at very reasonable prices, and some really excellent prices too. It's not Harrods, but who can afford to kit their house out from Harrods? IKEA has it's own style, and you may not be keen on the whole concept, but you will definately be able to go in, enjoy a browse, and will surely go home with at least some bits and bobs for your kitchen, or some cute gear for your kid's bedroom.

Summary: definately worth a browse