A popular home decor chain, known as the ‘little Ikea’ among customers, is set to double its presence in the UK. Søstrene Grene, a family-run brand that debuted in the UK in 2016, has garnered a devoted following for its Scandinavian design ethos and diverse range of homeware, kitchenware, gifts, and stationery.
Emulating the layout style of Ikea and Flying Tiger in Copenhagen, each Søstrene Grene store offers a labyrinthine design to encourage leisurely exploration before reaching the checkout area. With a recent influx of 47 new outlets this year, primarily in the UK and Germany, the retailer is pushing ahead with plans to establish an additional 20 stores by 2025, aiming for nearly 100 stores in the UK by 2027.
The company’s growth momentum has been fueled by a remarkable 130% year-over-year revenue surge in the UK. In a strategic move, Søstrene Grene is also investing in a new distribution center worth £36 million in the Netherlands, spanning 445,000 square meters.
Mikkel Grene, the CEO and co-owner of Søstrene Grene, expressed satisfaction with the brand’s performance, citing the UK as a key growth driver. The company’s robust Christmas season further solidified its customer loyalty and contributed to its success.
These expansion initiatives are particularly noteworthy amidst a backdrop of numerous retail closures on the high street. While various brands, including Poundland, Sports Direct, Starbucks, JD Sports, and Natwest, are shuttering locations across the UK, Søstrene Grene’s strategic approach seems to be paying off.
JD Sports, for instance, reported a slight decline in group sales but highlighted organic growth and resilience in a challenging market environment. The company’s focus on operational efficiency and financial prudence remains steadfast, with a positive outlook for profitability in the near term.
