IKEA Retail has revealed its top three online searches for the year, and they happen to have one thing in common – they are all storage and organising solutions for the home. In fact, the demand for smart storage solutions has been steadily rising over the past decade. This growth is fuelled by factors such as rapid urbanisation, smaller living spaces, and a growing consumer preference for organised, functional, and visually appealing home environments.
“As digital ecosystems continue to evolve, we can expect these trends to expand further—especially in storage and organisation solutions, driven by the popularity of social media hacks and creative ideas for optimising living spaces”
– Parag Parekh, CDO for IKEA Retail (Ingka Group)
With homes becoming smaller and lifestyles increasingly hectic, the need for versatile spaces has never been greater. Today’s living spaces often pull double duty, like office rooms that also serve as play areas, making effective storage more than just a convenience; it’s a lifeline for peace of mind. These organisation and storage solutions grow with customers at every stage of life, effortlessly adapting to the changing dynamics of households.
In a world that craves order and calm, it seems a well-organised space is a must for many. According to the IKEA Life at Home Report 2023, 40% of people feel most content and at ease when their homes are tidy and organised. This highlights how transformative good storage solutions can be, giving individuals not only a sense of control over their surroundings but also a feeling of accomplishment.
So, what are these year’s trending favourites amongst IKEA shoppers?
1. KALLAX – The Master of Space
At #1, the KALLAX shelving unit is a customer favourite, because of its versatility and modern design. Whether used as a room divider, mounted on the wall, or placed on the floor, KALLAX adapts to any space. Its rounded corners create an elegant finish, while the option to customise with inserts and boxes offers endless possibilities for tailored storage. From a playful kids’ bedroom to a functional student dorm or a stylish adult retreat, KALLAX blends practicality with personal style.
The KALLAX series, introduced in 2014, was developed to replace the popular EXPEDIT shelving unit. The transition aimed to maintain the beloved cube-shaped design while enhancing durability, sustainability, and affordability. IKEA often reuses products and develops them further to meet customer needs. One satisfied customer on the IKEA website shared their love for the product: “I love the versatility of the KALLAX unit. It fits perfectly in my living room and provides ample storage for my books and decorative items.”
2. BILLY – The Book Boss
The BILLY bookcase ranks #2 because it balances practicality, versatility, and style. Customers are drawn to its simple, timeless design that seamlessly integrates into any home, whether modern, traditional, or eclectic. Its modular nature allows for endless customization, from adjustable shelves to optional add-ons like glass doors or additional height extensions, catering to both functional needs and aesthetic preferences. Compact yet spacious, the BILLY bookcase works equally well in small apartments or expansive homes, offering an affordable storage solution for everything from books and decor to collectibles and office supplies.
The BILLY bookcase was designed by Gillis Lundgren in 1979 and has become one of most iconic IKEA products, with over 140 million units sold worldwide. It’s simple and functional design have made it a staple in homes globally. The BILLY modular system allows for customisation, enabling users to adapt the bookcase to their specific needs and spaces. Over the years, it has undergone various updates to enhance its durability and sustainability, reflecting the IKEA commitment to evolving with customer needs and environmental considerations.
3. PAX – The Wardrobe Guru
The PAX wardrobe system stands out at #3, for its unmatched flexibility and ability to recreate any personalised wardrobe. Unlike other wardrobe systems, PAX allows users to create a completely tailored storage solution to suit their space, style, and needs. Customers love the ability to mix and match components, from adjustable shelves and pull-out trays to built-in lighting and customisable doors, including sliding, mirrored, or solid finishes. The system’s modular design fits seamlessly into bedrooms of all sizes, offering an organised look while maximising storage space. Its affordability, combined with its high-end features, sets it apart as a wardrobe solution that balances both practicality and aesthetics.
Introduced in the 1970s, the PAX system was designed to provide a versatile and scalable storage option for modern homes. Over the decades, it has evolved to incorporate new materials, finishes, and innovative features, reflecting the IKEA commitment to a user-focused design.
In FY24, visitors to IKEA.com reached an impressive 4.1 billion, marking a significant 28% increase from FY23’s 3.2 billion, with online sales accounting for 28% of total sales. This growth underscores the increasing shift towards e-commerce. According to Parag Parekh, CDO for IKEA Retail (Ingka Group), ‘’As digital ecosystems continue to evolve, we can expect these trends to expand further—especially in storage and organisation solutions, driven by the popularity of social media hacks and creative ideas for optimising living spaces.’’
About Ingka Group
With IKEA retail operations on 31 markets, Ingka Group is the largest IKEA retailer and represents about 90% of IKEA retail sales. It is a strategic partner to develop and innovate the IKEA business and help define common IKEA strategies. Ingka Group owns and operates IKEA sales channels under franchise agreements with Inter IKEA Systems B.V. It has three business areas: IKEA Retail, Ingka Investments and Ingka Centres. Read more on www.Ingka.com.
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