As the grand opening date for IKEA Charlotte approaches, I'm hearing more people talk about it. It's been mostly women and they speak of their excitement. I can understand the appeal of being able to buy designer furniture at prices lower than you would at most home-furnishings stores, but to some people the opening of an IKEA is a life-changing event.
IKEA grand openings are legendary for attracting thousands of people, many who arrive ridiculously early. How ridiculous, you ask? Here's a note from the Swedish chain's website: "Air out your camping gear! Customers can begin lining up at IKEA Charlotte at 9:00 AM on Monday morning, February 16, 2009—in advance of our February 18, 2009 opening." Getting in line two days early—it can't be that serious.
There are more than 250 IKEA stores worldwide and this will be the first in North Carolina. It's located on City Boulevard (I-85) in north Charlotte and at 356,000 square feet, it will be one of the company's largest. While our economy tanked last year and is even further in the toilet now, IKEA managed to open 21 stores in 2008 and saw sales rise 7 percent. The company plans to open 20 stores this year. Click here for more on IKEA Charlotte.
Yes! It is THAT serious.
ReplyDeleteI know it seems strange to camp outside a store opening like some people do waiting for a rock band but Ikea has long had a cult following and many transplants from the northeast & mid-Atlantic are already familiar with Ikea's charm.
Count me as one of them:
http://ikeacarolina.blogspot.com/