Ikea to open its first store in Manhattan next year

Ikea is coming to Manhattan in spring 2019.

The Swedish-based retail company announced the news in a press release stating it will open its first city center store in the U.S. in an effort to continue the brand's ongoing transformation and commitment to bringing the retailer in to the heart of urban areas.

"We recognize that we are in a rapidly changing retail environment, and to be fit for long-term growth, IKEA is transforming in a way that lets us meet our customers where they are," said Lars Petersson, Country Manager, IKEA Retail U.S. "New York City is the natural choice to open the first city center store – the most vibrant, dynamic city in the US, and the epicenter of retail, business, and culture."

While the location will be Ikea's first-ever city center store, it won't resemble the brand's traditional shopping destination. The future store is part of a new Planning Studio concept the retailer has been developing in light of recent layoffs and restructuring as it works to boost its e-commerce revenue.

Ikea's Planning Studio will open at 999 Third Avenue and will focus on smart solutions for urban living and small spaces. Customers will be able to select and order products for delivery.