IKEA opens Asia’s first Pick-up & Order Point in Phuket

PHUKET: The first IKEA ‘Pick Up & Order Point’ in Asia was officially launched in Phuket yesterday, providing service to Thailand’s southern provinces.

The newest addition to the Swedish retailer’s furniture and home furnishings business, located on the bypass road in the Biz Town estate, aims to cater to the island’s growing business, real estate and tourism sectors.

“Phuket has enormous growth potential. It is the center of tourism and economy in the south,” said store manager Takurng Banjongruk, at the opening ceremony. “We are excited to launch in Phuket in order to reach clientele outside of Bangkok.”

The wide variety of items offered through the IKEA website and catalog make it easy for customers and businesses to create their own unique design style, Mr Takurng added.

Phuket Governor Chamroen Tipayapongtada voiced his support and appreciation for the new store’s contribution to Phuket’s economy and tourism sector while chairing yesterday’s event.

“Phuket is growing rapidly. There are several projects underway to help boost the tourism industry and I think IKEA will become a significant part of that,” said Governor Chamroen.

To shop at the new IKEA Pick-up & Order Point customers must:

1. Browse through IKEA’s website or catalog to create a shopping list

2. Visit the Pick-up & Order Point to place an order and select a pick-up date

3. Pick up the order or, for a fee, use the delivery service.

Orders will take an average of five days to arrive, the retailer says.

— Sukawin Tanthavanich