IKEA's 14th store in Canada will be an active community partner, contributing more than 280 jobs to the local region
QUEBEC, Aug. 22, 2018 /CNW/ - IKEA's highly-anticipated Quebec store celebrated its grand opening today, with co-workers welcoming thousands into its brand new 340,000 square foot location. IKEA Quebec is the retailer's 14th store in Canada.
"Today's opening represents a long-term investment for IKEA in the local Quebec community. We have built an inspiring, locally-relevant store, created hundreds of new jobs and continue to activate our vision to create a better everyday life for the many people through our sustainability and corporate initiatives," said IKEA President, Marsha Smith. "It's truly an exciting day for IKEA Canada."
The family-friendly opening ceremonies kicked off at 6 AM and featured local musical entertainment, circus performers, treats from IKEA's Swedish Food Market and over $10,000 in prizes for customers in line. The rain didn't dampen anyone's excitement, with guests lining up overnight to be one of the first to see the new store.
The morning celebration included remarks from IKEA Quebec Store Manager Annika Lenoir; Joël Lightbound, M.P. for Louis-Hébert, Hon. Sébastien Proulx, Minister of Education, Recreation and Sports, Minister responsible for the Capitale-Nationale region Member for Jean-Talon; Geneviève Guilbault, Member for Louis-Hébert and Mayor of Quebec Régis Labeaume. IKEA community partners also spoke about the Quebec store's long-term commitment to the local region, including words from Mike Rosen, President of Tree Canada and Valerie Lessard from the Breakfast Club of Canada.
"Today is an exciting day for our co-workers who are proud to welcome our first customers into our beautiful new store," said Annika Lenoir, Store Manager, IKEA Quebec. "We are truly grateful to the local community for their enthusiasm and support for IKEA Quebec. We look forward to continuing to be an active community partner."
IKEA Quebec is proud to have contributed more than 280 jobs to the local economy. This is in addition to the 500 indirect jobs created through store construction and service contracts. Half of the jobs at IKEA Quebec City are full-time, and part-time co-workers will receive guaranteed hours every week.
IKEA Quebec was constructed with sustainability in mind and will be LEED certified. The store features nearly 10,000 products, 50 inspirational room settings, 3 market relevant home interiors, a SMALAND supervised children's play area and a 500-seat restaurant serving the iconic Swedish meatballs, poutine and a wide variety of other dishes. Inspirational room settings reflect life at home in Quebec, all at affordable prices.
IKEA Quebec's opening offers on iconic products will continue throughout opening weekend. For every breakfast sold from August 22nd to 26th, IKEA will also donate one breakfast to Breakfast Club of Canada programs in the local community.
With this opening, IKEA Canada continues its journey to become the leading multichannel home furnishings retailer, delivering a fantastic customer experience whenever and wherever Canadians want to shop.
ABOUT IKEA CANADA
IKEA Group is a leading home furnishing retailer with 357 stores in more than 29 countries worldwide, which are visited by 817 million people every year. IKEA Canada has 14 stores, an eCommerce virtual store, five Pick-up and order points and 17 Collection Points. Last year, IKEA Canada welcomed 28 million visitors to its stores and 95 million visitors to the IKEA.ca website. Founded in 1943, IKEA's business philosophy is to offer a wide range of products of good design and function at prices so low, the majority of people can afford them. For more information on IKEA Canada, please visit: www.IKEA.ca.
SOURCE IKEA Canada
Kristin Newbigging, Public Relations Manager, [email protected]
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