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Welcome to the 2008 IKEA International Case Competition!

IKEA, the world’s largest home furnishings retailer, is honored to sponsor the University of Washington’s IKEA International Case Competition.  IKEA has 250 stores in 34 different countries and the store in Renton is among thirty of the largest stores in the world in terms of both sales and square footage.  Until recently, IKEA Seattle was one of the few stores that are part-owned by former long-term coworkers.  After 12 successful years, the franchise owners decided to sell their interest in the Seattle store to pursue other opportunities outside of IKEA. Consequently, IKEA Seattle has now joined the rest of the IKEA North American Organization.

IKEA Seattle was started as part of an experiment to create internal competition and new ways of retaining its distinctive company culture. “A decentralized decision making environment, where local leadership is encouraged to grow and flourish”.  IKEA Seattle became a leading example of success.  The culture, climate, and environment that was created and supported throughout the last 12 years have allowed the store and its employees to grow and flourish.

Our unique company culture has enabled us to be successful in many economic conditions.  Our behaviors during good times, makes transitions to rougher times quite easy.  Fundamentally, IKEA values simplicity, honesty and humility. It is not a company for one’s dreaming of a big corner office, the personal secretary, first or business class travel, special parking spot or similar perks.  It is for people who enjoy simplicity, fun and treating everyone, no matter what position, with the utmost respect.  This is why we continue to enjoy sponsoring and judging this event, because it gives us an opportunity to see the innovative solutions and creative thinking that this case competition brings out and IKEA thrives on.

Thank you for allowing us to participate and we truly look forward to this year’s event.

“The future is filled with opportunities and most things still remain to be done. A glorious future!”  Ingvar Kamprad

Sincerely,

Laurie Helm
Store Manager
IKEA Seattle