At the heart of Fourlis Group’s strategy is the development of a network that combines physical stores, digital capabilities and next-generation retail formats, aiming for greater accessibility, upgraded shopping experience and more efficient operations.
“Our strategy for IKEA is based on a simple but essential principle: to bring the IKEA experience closer to consumers’ daily lives. Through new formats, investments in omnichannel capabilities and strong infrastructure, we are building a more flexible and accessible retail model that combines inspiration, convenience and efficiency at every customer touchpoint”, emphasizes Panagiotis Katiforis, CEO of HOUSEMARKET A.E.
This strategy is already being implemented through targeted investments and upgrades to the IKEA network in Greece and Southeastern Europe. Recent openings and expansions in Patras, Heraklion and Rhodes, the optimization of the store at Athens Airport retail park, and the network development in Bulgaria with the new location in Pernik are characteristic examples of the Group’s new strategic direction. Additionally, further development is planned with new formats near smaller cities, while long-term planning includes the new flagship store in Elliniko, with completion scheduled for 2029. At the same time, store upgrades are progressing in Limassol and Plovdiv, while for 2027 a new store in Corfu is planned, as well as the relocation of the Burgas store to a new space, within the framework of the “next generation store” concept.
The Group’s goal is to further strengthen its presence in regional areas through new-generation stores that operate more flexibly, more efficiently and with greater proximity to customers.
In this context, the new IKEA store in Rhodes was recently inaugurated, which is an evolution of the Order and Collection Centre. With a total area of 2,700 sq.m., the new store significantly upgrades the shopping experience for residents and visitors, offering complete solutions for home and professional spaces, as well as a specially designed kitchen and wardrobe planning area with the help of specialized IKEA consultants.
IKEA Store, Patras
“We see that consumers today seek greater convenience, immediate service and solutions that genuinely meet their daily needs. Our goal is for each new location to function as a modern and easily accessible destination, adapted to the needs of the local market and contemporary consumers”, emphasizes Mr. Katiforis.
The transformation of Fourlis Group is not limited to store network development. It is simultaneously strengthened by significant investments in logistics infrastructure, supply chain and e-commerce, with the characteristic example being the new InterIkea international distribution center in Aspropyrgos, implemented in collaboration with Fourlis Group. The new logistics hub, with a total area of approximately 50,000 sq.m., is expected to become operational in the third quarter of 2026 and will initially serve the markets of Greece, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Israel and Jordan, with prospects for expansion to other countries in the region. This investment strengthens Greece’s strategic role as a regional hub for the Eastern Mediterranean and confirms Fourlis Group’s position not only in retail, but also in logistics and supply chain sectors in Southeastern Europe.
With consumer experience at its center, Fourlis Group continuously evolves IKEA’s footprint, investing in a more modern, accessible and flexible retail model that responds to the needs of contemporary daily life.
IKEA Store in Patras
IKEA Store in Rhodes
