IKEA Opens First Second-Hand Store in Sweden for Trial Run

IKEA, the multinational furnishing brand, is spotlighting the importance of limiting furniture waste by opening its first second-hand store in Eskilstuna, Sweden, on Nov. 2. Located in ReTuna Återbruksgalleria—a mall for recycled and upcycled goods—the 74-square-meter store will open for six months as part of a pilot run as IKEA aims to become “a fully circular and climate positive business by 2030.”

Damaged goods from the brand’s nearby store and donated, gently-used IKEA items will have a chance at a second life—and a slight refresh, if needed, with a team on hand to carry out furniture repairs and renovations. 

In Sweden, stores already sell second-hand IKEA items in-store and the company is piloting a Sell-Back Program in 27 countries, including Canada. As part of the program, customers can exchange old and unwanted IKEA items in return for store vouchers worth up to 50 percent off the original price for their next purchase. While there are no immediate plans to bring the program to the U.S., the company intends to use this year’s Black Friday event to promote sustainable living.