IKEA Malaysia strengthens omnichannel strategy
KUALA LUMPUR: IKEA Malaysia is evolving its retail approach as changing consumer behaviour and digital shopping reshape how Malaysians shop for home furnishings.
IKEA Malaysia is adapting its business model to meet the changing needs of Malaysian consumers, with a focus on omnichannel retailing that blends physical stores, online shopping, in-store home delivery and collection points. The company's Retail Director in Malaysia, Takeshi Murai, explained that the strategy aims to bring the IKEA experience closer to customers while offering solutions tailored to smaller living spaces.
IKEA Malaysia Country Retail Director Takeshi Murai highlighted that the upcoming Kuching store will be a key example of this new approach, designed around inspiration and touch-and-feel experiences for customers. Murai emphasized that the company is not abandoning physical retail, but rather broadening the ways customers can access IKEA products and services.
The shift towards an omnichannel model is more about getting closer to consumers through various touchpoints, rather than opening traditional large-format stores in every location. In Ipoh, for example, customers can order IKEA products and arrange for delivery at an IKEA collection point, demonstrating the company's commitment to improving accessibility.
IKEA is also exploring new services like online interior design to enhance its digital offerings. The company's strategy is being shaped by shifts in consumer behavior, with a particular focus on storage and organization challenges in smaller urban homes. Murai said IKEA is learning from its global experience in small-space living, particularly from markets like Tokyo, to develop relevant solutions for Malaysian consumers.
The launch of IKEA Kuching in December will mark the retailer's first store in East Malaysia, showcasing the company's approach to different store formats for different markets. Murai emphasized that the Kuching store will complement digital shopping, providing customers with more flexibility and options. Affordability remains a top priority for IKEA, with the company recently lowering prices on over 1,200 products and introducing new offerings priced below RM5.
Murai stressed that IKEA's low prices do not compromise on quality, design, or sustainability but provide value for money. Looking ahead, Murai expressed optimism about IKEA's prospects in Malaysia, driven by the company's commitment to affordability, accessibility, and sustainability. He emphasized that IKEA's success goes beyond sales and store numbers, aiming to create a better life for Malaysians by delivering products to every household.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
