IKEA to open new compact store at Chester’s Greyhound Retail Park

IKEA has announced it will open a new store in Chester in 2025 as part of its strategy to get closer to customers.

The upcoming store will be located on the former Homebase site in Greyhound Retail Park.

This new Chester branch is one of three smaller-format stores launching across the UK next year, alongside sites in Harlow and Norwich.

The move is part of the Swedish retailer’s expansion plan to reach more customers where they live, shop and socialise.

The Chester store will retain many classic elements of the IKEA experience, including home furnishing inspiration, a curated market hall, and planning services — all within a more compact format.

A smaller-scale food offer will also be available, with takeaway favourites such as IKEA’s famous Swedish meatballs on the menu.

Shoppers can expect a display of up to 5,000 products, with around 3,000 available for immediate purchase.

The rest of IKEA’s full range will be accessible through digital tools in-store.

Click and collect services will also be offered for added convenience.

The new Chester location will provide complimentary, one-to-one design support to help customers create their ideal living spaces.

IKEA has confirmed that the familiar store layout and signage will be present to guide visitors through the compact store.

Peter Jelkeby, CEO of IKEA UK and Ireland, said the expansion reflects a commitment to meeting customers where they are:

“Harlow, Chester and Norwich have long been areas of interest to us, and we’re looking forward to bringing the very best of the IKEA experience in a refreshingly compact format to these communities later this year.”

While the exact opening date has not yet been confirmed, the Chester store will join IKEA’s existing network of 21 full-size stores across the UK, as well as a growing number of smaller city-centre locations.