Shoppers flock to new store

THE long-awaited IKEA will finally open its doors today at 9am to the delight of shoppers who have been waiting anxiously to explore the iconic megastore after watching it take shape over almost two years on wasteland off one of Bahrain’s busiest highways.

The Swedish store, situated in Salmabad, is famous for its range of ready-to-assemble contemporary furniture designs, knick-knacks and everyday home essentials. The two underground and one outdoor parking area with a capacity of 1,250 cars are likely to be full well before the shutters come up.

It has been brought to the island by the Al Sulaiman Group, IKEA Saudi Arabia, and is the largest in the region, compete with a 6,200sqm showroom, a 6,000sqm market hall for accessories, a 5,000sqm self-serve section and a full service area measuring 4,000sqm, as well as an 800-seat restaurant. There is also a 220sqm play facility for children called Smaland, named after the tiny town in Sweden where IKEA’s first store opened after it was founded in 1943.

In the lead up to the official unveiling of the giant yellow and blue building, a sneak preview was held attracting more than 1,500 invited guests, including family members of its employees, contracting company and media representatives, as well as VIPs and government officials.

The aim was to give the team a thorough test before today’s big crush of custom. Jalila Ali, IKEA Bahrain’s marketing specialist, explained: “We’re very excited about the official opening and staged a Family Day to see if there were any room for improvement and to ensure that everything goes smoothly once we open.

“A lot of the employees here have already gone through months of rigorous training and finally now were able to see everyone carrying out their duties and achieving their goals. I think IKEA’s culture is very special in terms of everyone feeling like ‘family’. We have certain values that we live by and that’s what brings us all together.”

The first visitors received a cherry welcome with thunderous applause as they stepped on to the escalators before walking through the maze of sections.

The first shoppers to step inside appeared to be impressed. Graphic designer Aisha AlSaati, 21, from Galali, said:  “I love this store. It’s like Disneyland for adults.

“I have visited one in Saudi but having our own IKEA here is overwhelmingly good. My favourite things are all the little knick knacks and I also enjoy picking up design ideas. It’s like being on a treasure hunt. I’m sure this store will also give a big boost to Bahrain’s economy.”

University of Bahrain architecture student Rawan Jahromi, 20, who lives in Jurdab was visiting an IKEA store for the very first time. “I’ve heard so much about it from cousins and friends,” she said. “This place is amazing.”

Apart from the furniture the store is also renowned for its signature Swedish meatballs which will be available in Bahrain in freezer packs to take-away. A halal-friendly menu featuring beef and chicken, alongside vegetarian options, has been produced for the restaurant and a bistro near the checkout tills offers a range of snacks, including shawarmas.

IKEA has 385 stores spread over 48 countries. There are plans to open at least 10 more stores over the next few years.