A record-breaking 3,730 people have applied for just 150 positions at IKEA's new Oxford Street store, marking the retailer's largest-ever recruitment response in the UK.

The Swedish furniture company received the applications within five days for its innovative city centre location, which is set to open in Spring 2025. The store represents IKEA's latest venture into urban retail, offering a fresh approach that combines traditional shopping with digital innovation.

"This extraordinary response demonstrates the incredible appeal of joining the IKEA co-worker family," says Matt Gould, market manager for IKEA London City. "We're delighted to see such enthusiasm for our most innovative store yet, and we look forward to building a diverse team that will help shape the future of urban retail in London."

The new store will offer competitive compensation, with workers receiving the Real Living Wage of £13.85 per hour alongside comprehensive benefits including flexible working arrangements, enhanced parental leave, and daily free healthy meals.

Westminster City Council has welcomed the employment opportunities, with cabinet member for planning and economic development Geoff Barraclough noting: "A recovering Oxford Street is bringing not only top names but good quality jobs to the West End. It is great to see IKEA creating 150 quality jobs and as brands occupy space on Oxford Street, more opportunities will be created."

The Oxford Street location will showcase 6,000 IKEA products and feature dedicated spaces for expert advice and inspiration. Customers can expect the familiar IKEA experience with a showroom, Market Hall, and Swedish Deli serving the brand's iconic meatballs and plant-based alternatives. The store will also provide free planning services for kitchens, wardrobes and bathrooms.

Successful candidates will begin their roles in early March, completing an eight-week onboarding programme at IKEA Hammersmith before the store's grand opening. The company has now closed its application process and moved into the assessment phase, focusing on recruiting individuals who align with its culture and values rather than solely considering previous experience.

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