Welcome to Älmhult
The heart of IKEA
Founded 1943 in Älmhult, Sweden, IKEA has grown from a tiny mail-order company to one of the most well-known brands in the world. Älmhult remains the home of IKEA. What is it like today?
Where the IKEA story begins
It was right here in Älmhult that a young Ingvar Kamprad founded IKEA in 1943. At just 17, he already had a keen entrepreneurial spirit and a healthy dose of Småland stubbornness and ingenuity. In the early years, Ingvar imported things like pens, watches and nylon stockings; adding furniture to the range in 1948. His vision for accessible home furnishings grew from these humble beginnings, shaping the IKEA brand we know today.
Center of design and product development
Look between the pine, birch and spruce and you’ll find the epicentre of IKEA’s creativity. All IKEA products are designed and developed right here in Älmhult. IKEA of Sweden is responsible for both creating and supplying the global IKEA range and leads the IKEA value chain from the first sketch to the final product.
With a focus on combining all five dimensions of Democratic Design, our dedicated teams work to fulfil the IKEA vision of a better everyday life for the many people.
"What I like about working at IKEA in Älmhult is that even though it's a big global company, I still find it small – there's still a family feeling."
– Filippa Borg
Team Manager
IKEA Museum
If you're visiting Älmhult, the IKEA Museum is a must visit. In fact, it should be manditory! This is the place for anyone who’s curious about IKEA. Curious about our history, curious about design, or curious about how Ingvar Kamprad from little old Agunnaryd created the global company we are today. Or you may just be curious to see what our very first store looked like.
Foraging among the pine trees
The forests of Småland are magical. With tall pines, mossy rocks, and winding trails, it’s the perfect place for a quiet moment of contemplation or an energising run through the shaded paths. In autumn, the forests come alive with mushroom foraging season. Wandering through the woods looking for chanterelles is a special Swedish tradition.
Wild swimming and lakeside picnics
If you’ve been anywhere near a body of water with a Swede, you’ve likely heard the saying, “you never regret a swim”! Once you’ve been for a dip in the lakes of Småland, you’ll understand – it is pure bliss! After enjoying the crystal-clear water, there’s nothing better than grabbing a spot by the lake for a picnic with friends or family.
A stay at the IKEA Hotell
So, your interest is piqued, and you’d like to visit Älmhult to see it for yourself. Then the IKEA Hotell is the perfect place to stay! It's cosy, comfortable, and just minutes away from many of the IKEA buildings. Plus, the simple, stylish rooms and delicious breakfast buffet make it a great spot to relax and get a feel for the town before making any big decisions.
“Älmhult is calm and so safe for kids, with the added advantage of cultural diversity.”
– Navli Avdan
Knowledge Modeller
Älmhult, through the eyes of a local
Supply Manager Shaveta Miglani loves nothing more than a walk in the nearby forests, foraging for mushrooms and berries. However, it's the great schools and activities that Älmhult offers her and her family that brought her here all the way from Delhi! For many IKEA co-workers who move to Älmhult from all around the globe, it's the perfect place for work and play.
