IKEA's Home Experience of Tomorrow was recently introduced to IKEA Shanghai Xuhui and with it, an innovative store design that shares immersive experiences. Shoppers know that IKEA is intentionally laid out like a maze so that they have to take the chosen path in order to reach the items they are interested in purchasing, and with this new design, IKEA promises a "more immersive experience."
The store is focused on promoting sustainable living and inviting people to lounge on furniture, rather than just seeing them as set-up merchandising displays. In some spaces within the Home Experience of Tomorrow, people will be invited to hang out with influencers, participate in various hands-on workshops or even just reap the benefits of light therapy.
Immersive Furniture Stores
IKEA's Home Experience of Tomorrow Introduces a New Store Design
Trend Themes
1. Immersive Retail - Other retailers can follow IKEA's lead and create immersive store experiences that invite customers to interact with products and engage in sustainable living.
2. Experience Economy - Creating an experience for customers, such as hands-on workshops and influencer meetups, can set businesses apart and attract shoppers looking for a unique experience.
3. Sustainable Living - The focus on promoting sustainable living can encourage businesses to develop eco-friendly solutions and products that appeal to socially conscious shoppers.
Industry Implications
1. Retail - Retailers in any sector can adopt immersive store designs and experiences to increase engagement and sales.
2. Furniture - Furniture companies can provide customers with interactive product displays, workshops, and sustainable living initiatives to appeal to a diverse range of shoppers.
3. Wellness - Incorporating light therapy or other wellness initiatives into store design can provide a unique selling point for wellness retailers seeking to enhance the customer experience.