Over 112,000 UK households are homeless and living in temporary accommodation, and more than a million are on social housing waiting lists. Those numbers are set to rise as the cost of living crisis deepens.
With its focus on affordable home goods — and its deep pockets — IKEA is well positioned to lend a helping hand. As Peter Jelkeby, Country Retail Manager and Chief Sustainability Officer at IKEA UK & Ireland, stated: "At IKEA, we want to create a better everyday life for the many people. This ambition goes beyond just home furnishing: we want to have a positive impact on the world."
Many of IKEA's workers will know people at risk of losing their homes, and some might be facing a housing emergency of their own. By giving them the opportunity to help others, the retailing behemoth is offering its employees a way to feel empowered in the midst of economic and political turmoil. One to be inspired by?
