IKEA to close seven China stores from February as clearance sales spark chaotic scenes caught on video
IKEA’s announcement that it will close seven stores across China from 2 February has triggered chaotic clearance-sale scenes at affected outlets, with viral videos showing crowds rushing, jostling and arguing over discounted items.
- IKEA will close seven stores in China from 2 February as part of a market strategy adjustment.
- Viral videos show chaotic scenes during clearance sales, including crowding and disputes.
- The retailer plans to focus on targeted growth in key cities and expand smaller-format stores.
CHINA: Swedish furniture giant IKEA has announced that it will shut seven of its stores across China from 2 February, prompting clearance sales that have reportedly descended into chaos at some outlets.
Following the announcement, videos circulating online appear to show shoppers scrambling for discounted goods at stores slated for closure. The footage has sparked widespread discussion and criticism on social media.
According to local reports, the videos were believed to have been filmed during clearance promotions, although the exact locations have not been confirmed.
Crowds, Running and Scuffles Captured on Video
In the clips, stores were packed with customers, with entrances and exits congested by large crowds. Some footage shows shoppers running forward, suggesting they had queued before opening hours and rushed in as soon as doors opened.
Other videos captured customers arguing over furniture, trolleys and other items. In one scene, two parties were seen tugging at the same shopping cart, refusing to let go and exchanging heated words.
Elsewhere in the store, shoppers continued rummaging through display areas, with some removing items directly from showroom setups. Long queues were also seen snaking through payment counters, creating bottlenecks and further adding to the disorder.
Netizens React to “Uncivilised” Behaviour
The videos quickly went viral, drawing criticism from many netizens who condemned the lack of order and civility. Some mocked the frenzy, pointing out that many IKEA-style products can now be easily purchased online via platforms such as Taobao and Pinduoduo, often with free delivery.
Others questioned whether the aggressive behaviour was necessary, given the availability of similar goods through e-commerce channels.
IKEA Confirms Store Closures
IKEA confirmed the store closures in a statement posted on its official WeChat account on 7 January. The seven outlets set to close include stores in suburban Shanghai, Guangzhou, as well as second-tier cities such as Nantong, Xuzhou and Harbin.
According to Reuters, the closures come as IKEA adjusts its strategy in the Chinese market.
The company is shifting away from a rapid expansion model towards more targeted growth in key cities such as Beijing and Shenzhen, while strengthening its online sales presence.
IKEA currently operates about 40 stores across China and has recently opened five new outlets of varying sizes.
The company plans to open more than 10 smaller-format stores in China over the next two years, with new locations in Dongguan and Beijing expected to open in the first half of 2026.
