Exeter’s new IKEA store is starting to take shape

The long-awaited outlet at Newcourt Way, near Sandy Park on the outskirts of the city, is due to open in early summer 2018.

And as these pictures show, the development is rapidly taking shape.

IKEA has invested £80 million in the new Exeter store, which will be the 21st IKEA in the UK. It will create 350 new jobs.

The start of work on site has been welcomed by Exeter City Council leader Pete Edwards.

He said: “This is a significant moment for Exeter. We have long been anticipating IKEA’s arrival in the city, which is why we’ve worked closely with IKEA to make this happen.

“A new IKEA store is fast becoming a reality. The new store will create many new jobs for local people in and around Exeter, as well as bring investment to the city and surrounding region. It will be a great addition to the South West’s retail offering, and we look forward to the store’s opening.”

All IKEA co-workers will be paid the Real Living Wage and will also receive a benefits package including an annual bonus and a pension loyalty scheme.

The Exeter store will also be the retailer’s most sustainable to date, and will aim to achieve 100 per cent renewable energy.

It will incorporate green technology including solar PV panels on the roof, rainwater harvesting and ground source heating.

Electric vehicles will be used for home delivery, and IKEA will provide eight electric vehicle charging points on site to offer renewable generated power.

IKEA will also create new cycle lanes around the store and will also provide six electric bike charging points.