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Ingka Group Enhances IKEA Delivery with Locus Acquisition

In a significant move to reshape the delivery experience for customers, Ingka Group, the largest retailer of IKEA, has announced its acquisition of Locus, a leading technology company specializing in AI-driven logistics solutions. This strategic investment is expected to bolster IKEA's digital capabilities, ensuring that customers receive their home furnishings in a seamless and efficient manner.

A Strategic Investment

The transaction was revealed on October 7, 2025, and it emphasizes Ingka Group's dedication to improving the consumer journey by leveraging advanced technological solutions. Locus is known for its cutting-edge logistics management platform that incorporates sophisticated algorithms for route optimization and real-time tracking. By integrating these functionalities, IKEA aims to better streamline its logistics processes, from warehouse management to last-mile delivery.

For years, IKEA has relied heavily on various third-party providers for its delivery services. With the acquisition of Locus, Ingka Group is moving towards a more integrated approach where it can exercise greater control over this crucial component of the customer experience. Parag Parekh, the Global Chief Digital Officer for IKEA Retail at Ingka Group, stated, "Our vision is to create a better everyday life for the many, and that includes delivering products when and how customers want them. This acquisition strengthens the digital capabilities required to meet rising customer expectations, while ensuring the quality and reliability IKEA is known for."

Meeting Growing Customer Expectations

The move comes at a pivotal time for the retail giant, as online sales accounted for 28% of IKEA’s total retail sales for fiscal year 2024, which saw a substantial increase from 11% in 2019. This surge is indicative of changing consumer behavior, where customers expect more efficient and reliable online shopping experiences. Integrating Locus's technology into IKEA’s operations will be instrumental in accommodating this growing demand, thereby enhancing the shopping experience across their multiple channels.

Moreover, the acquisition complements Ingka Group's previous strategic technology investments, including partnerships with Made4net, aimed at enhancing warehouse management, and TaskRabbit, which expanded the company’s furniture assembly services. These collaborations are aligned with IKEA's broader goal to create a faster and smarter distribution network.

Locus's Role In Revolutionizing Logistics

Locus’s AI-powered platform offers advanced functionalities that enable efficient resource management, vehicle allocation, and detailed tracking of shipments. This technological marvel ensures that grocery deliveries, among various other logistics needs, become flexible and streamlined while significantly reducing operational costs. As a result, customers can expect a quicker response time and an improved overall delivery experience when ordering from IKEA.

Furthermore, this acquisition reflects Ingka Group's commitment to maintaining its leading position in the global home furnishing market. By strengthening internal capabilities and minimizing reliance on external logistics services, IKEA is set on a path to enhance its operational efficiency while delivering unparalleled customer satisfaction.

Future of IKEA’s Supply Chain

As Ingka Group progresses with integrating Locus’s capabilities, there is a high anticipation among stakeholders for how these changes will manifest in day-to-day operations. The move is not merely about technological advancement; it is rooted in a deeply consumer-centric approach that seeks to redefine how customers engage with the brand.

The partnership with Locus is anticipated to pave the way for IKEA to optimize its entire supply chain, from managing stock levels effectively to ensuring prompt delivery right to the consumer’s doorstep. As IKEA continues to innovate and adapt to market changes, the expectation is that this acquisition will not only improve IKEA's logistics but also enhance customer loyalty and brand reputation, fostering stronger relationships with consumers.

In conclusion, the acquisition of Locus marks a significant step forward for Ingka Group and IKEA as they continue their journey to transform home delivery experiences in the retail sector. With a focus on leveraging technology and optimizing operational processes, IKEA is positioning itself for long-term growth while meeting the evolving needs of its customers.