PHOTO: IKEA NZ Market Manager Johanna Cederlöf. IKEA
Ikea is making waves in New Zealand ahead of the much-anticipated opening of its first store in Auckland’s Sylvia Park. The iconic Swedish retailer, known for its vast array of flat-pack furniture and stylish home essentials, has already received an astonishing 800 applications for each of its senior management roles – and the recruitment process is far from over.
The new Ikea store, a massive $407 million project, is expected to open its doors later this year, though an exact date has yet to be revealed. The three-level store will include a car park, a Swedish restaurant and food market, as well as two full-scale houses on display in the showroom.
Despite challenging economic conditions, where the labour market remains tight and businesses are facing uncertain times, Ikea’s local market manager, Johanna Cederlöf, is thrilled by the overwhelming response. “This start has positively surprised us. We knew the figures would be high, but this high is really positive and it gives us hope for the next stages of recruitment,” Cederlöf said.
New Zealand’s first IKEA store will open at Auckland’s Sylvia Park
Ikea’s commitment to hiring local talent is clear. The company is keen to recruit 400 employees for a range of roles, from sales to customer service, food, logistics, and interior design. The new roles are set to offer enticing benefits that differ from the norm in New Zealand, including a living wage as a starting point, a cafeteria with reduced prices for staff, and five weeks of paid annual leave.
The new complex will include a Swedish restaurant and food market, as well as two full-scale houses as part of its showroom. Photo: Supplied
This surge in interest comes at a time when many sectors are still grappling with job losses, and Ikea’s arrival in the New Zealand market is seen as a beacon of hope for the future of employment. As mass recruitment for the Sylvia Park store kicks off in April, those looking for a stable career with an international brand will certainly have their eyes on the prize.
The store itself will feature some impressive details: a stunning three-level layout, a ground-level car park, and striking blue exterior walls. Ikea’s commitment to quality is reflected in the structural steel used in the build – a whopping 4800 tonnes, twice the amount used in a typical Ikea store. This is to ensure the building meets seismic requirements and accommodates its height.
Ikea has received about 800 applicants for each role its advertised ahead of the store’s opening. Photo: Supplied
With the market eagerly anticipating Ikea’s grand opening, it’s clear that this is more than just the launch of a store – it’s a game-changer for the local job market and retail landscape. If you’re eager to be part of the action, don’t miss your chance to apply for one of the many positions opening in the coming months!
SOURCE: RNZ