IKEA has announced the closure of its Memphis store, a decision that comes merely a year after the location underwent a comprehensive renovation. The Swedish furniture giant will shut its doors on May 3, 2026, leaving Tennessee without a single full in-store shopping location for IKEA products.
Residents React with Shock and Sadness
Memphis residents have expressed profound disappointment and surprise at the news. "I just found a place where I can get all the items that I need, and then now I find out it's closing," said IKEA shopper Jim Kincaid in an interview with WMC Memphis. "That's devastating news to me." Another local, Milton Siler, noted the store's popularity, stating, "From what we see, it's busy all the time, never heard about anything bad about it. It's convenient."
Recent Renovations Add to the Surprise
The closure is particularly startling given the recent upgrades to the Memphis store. After opening in 2016, IKEA completed a significant overhaul of its showroom and market hall approximately a year ago. The renovations introduced a Central Planning Hub with expert assistance for home projects and a Swedish restaurant and food market seating over 100 people.
Morgan Shea, another shopper, called the closure "really heartbreaking," emphasizing the rarity of finding affordable, quality furniture. The store had become a destination for both locals and visitors, with Siler adding, "We have friends that come from out of town. They come in here to specifically visit the store before they go back."
IKEA's Rationale and Broader Strategy
In a Tuesday announcement, IKEA explained that the decision followed a comprehensive review, considering factors such as market share, business performance, cost structure, and the overall optimization of physical assets. Despite this closure, the company is investing $2.2 billion in the United States, including the opening of 14 "new format" stores last year and plans for additional locations this year.
Impact on Employees and Customers
For workers affected by the closure, IKEA has committed to trying to retain as many employees as possible by supporting transitions to roles at other IKEA locations. Those who choose not to relocate will be offered severance packages. Memphis customers will still have access to IKEA's products through online shopping, but the loss of the physical store marks a significant change for the community.
With the closure, Tennessee will only have a pick-up only location in Antioch, leaving residents without a full in-store experience. The move highlights the ongoing shifts in retail strategy, even for established brands like IKEA, as they balance physical presence with digital offerings and market dynamics.
