IKEA construction progresses in Columbus

The newest IKEA location in Ohio is one step closer to opening its doors.

The Swedish home furnishings retailer announced the steel framing has progressed far enough to install the iconic blue composite panels on the new store. Installing the blue panels is a construction “milestone,” keeping the store on track to open by next summer.

>>> IKEA starts construction on Columbus store

The Swedish company’s plans include the 355,000-square-foot building plus 1,100 parking spaces on 33 acres at in the Polaris Centers of Commerce development.

The new Ikea property is approximately 15 miles north of downtown Columbus. Pepper Construction is building the project, according to a release from IKEA. The plans for the building are consistent with the signature architectural design IKEA is recognized for globally, the company said.

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IKEA announced the creation of 500 jobs during the construction phase, and approximately 300 more workers will be employed when the new store opens.

IKEA Columbus will offer nearly 60 food service opportunities in its restaurant, Swedish food market, bistro and coworker cafeteria.

The company has locations in 48 countries, and has 42 in the U.S. The retailer also has a store located in West Chester Twp., just north of Cincinnati. The West Chester location was the first to open in Ohio in 2008.

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