Desperate for a patio refresh or a new Billy bookcase? You're in luck: Ikea has just re-opened both their Metro Vancouver locations to in-store customers.
The June 1 re-opening of the Ikea Richmond and Ikea Coquitlam - along with the Halifax store - means the Swedish build-it-yourself furniture giant now has all their Canadian locations up and running again after COVID-19 forced a temporary shutter.
Over the last few weeks, Ikea has offered both home delivery as well as a curbside "Click and Collect" shopping option. Both of those will remain available for those shoppers who aren't able or comfortable to be in the stores themselves.
Shopping is also going to be a bit different at Ikea, as the retailer adheres to provincial mandates for safety and distancing.
Customers will be asked to stay two metres apart; floor decals have been put in place for line-ups. Capacity for the store overall as well as areas within the store has been set. Workers will be wearing masks, and customers are encouraged to do the same.
Workers will undergo a temperature check when entering the building.
Carts and surfaces will be cleaned and sanitized frequently, and hand sanitizer will be available throughout the store.
The Ikea Restaurant and children's play area will remain closed. For food on-site, the Bistro will be open for takeout only.
Ikea also has some tips for shoppers so that their in-store experience can be pleasant, quick, and productive. The company is urging shoppers to plan ahead by checking stock levels of items they want online; visiting at an off-peak time; touching only merchandise they intend to buy; and shopping in groups of two or less.
“As we reopen our store locations, our top priority continues to be the health and safety of our co-workers, customers and communities,” said Michael Ward, CEO and Chief Sustainability Officer, IKEA Canada. “We will continue to act in a responsible way and before making any decisions to open our doors, we have taken steps to ensure our health and safety measures are secured.”
