SHOPPERS at Churchill Square gave their reactions to Ikea opening next month.
After much anticipation, Ikea has confirmed its permanent city-centre store in Churchill Square will officially open on Thursday, August 14.
Taking over the former Debenhams unit, the two-storey space promises a full IKEA experience. Shoppers will find roomsets, a bustling market-hall, Swedish dining options, and expert planning consultations.
Barry Foster, 65, from Brighton, welcomed the store but raised questions about the location. He said: “We need a shop like Ikea here, with the closest one so far away, but in the middle of town I’m not so sure.
“Maybe a bit out of the centre would have been better.”
Elizabeth Tinkler, 79, from Hove, said: “There’s two sides to this.
“On the one hand, Ikea should bring lots of job prospects and employment for local people.
“However, I don’t agree with one shop having a monopoly and purchasing the shopping centre.
“I think it means we lose our individuality in Brighton, but I suppose we will have to wait and see.”
For Matthew Glinski, 20, from Patcham, the city-centre store lacks the essence of what makes the Ikea shopping experience unique.
He said: “I really don’t agree with the new shop.
“I liked the warehouse experience of Ikea.
“I visited the Oxford Street Ikea and it just didn’t feel like the authentic Ikea experience we all know and love.”
Not everyone, however, is a regular customer. Michael Kavanagh, 72, visiting from Ireland, sees the new location as an opportunity.
He said: “I haven’t visited an Ikea before, but perhaps being more accessible in the shopping centre I will now.”
Meanwhile, Susan Althorpe, 21, from Cuckfield, was excited for the opening.
She said: “I have always enjoyed visiting Ikea, so I am pleased this one is opening so close to home.
“I am looking forward to the store opening, and think this is going to help Brighton’s economy grow.”
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