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How IKEA adapted its design to China
What does understanding cultural needs mean for experience success?
Before we dive in. For your reading pleasure and for the validity of the article and its trustworthiness there are references throughout the article. The full reference list can be found at the bottom of this article. Enjoy!
Jump to sections of interest:
- Cultural sensitivity to design
- How IKEA redesigned and adapted stores to fit Chinese culture (almost)
- How to get to China
- How to adjust outside of Scandinavia
- Cultural clash or cultural fusion?
- Nationality vs. Identity
- Made in… What?
- Conclusion
Cultural sensitivity to design
This is an overview and study on how IKEA made it to China and opened their first store in 1998. But also, a study and a closer look at how they adapted and at what cost.
Companies like Volvo and IKEA need to recognize and also accommodate the cultural nuances in design and product offerings to resonate with diverse consumer segments, that differ from the Scandinavian market. In short, IKEA’s challenge lies in balancing its standardized products with local tastes and tradition. Therefore, effective design strategies should prioritize user research and localization efforts to create seamless and relevant experiences for consumers across different cultural contexts.
Additionally, transparent storytelling and branding that celebrates the company’s heritage, like Volvo’s emphasis on its Swedish roots, can enhance brand authenticity and trust among global consumers.
We will throughout this article take a close look at what IKEA did to overcome some of these challenges and look at how IKEA made their path to China a success.
How IKEA redesigned and adapted stores to fit Chinese culture (almost)
Volvo and IKEA are two completely different companies. One produces cars, while the other produces furniture and home accessories. What is the common denominator for these…
