Ikea Brighton Opening Date: Is Swedish Brand Holding A Popup Before Major Launch? Here's What We Know

A new IKEA store in Brighton is opening on 14 August 2025, promising to bring a wave of change to the city's retail landscape. The store, located in Churchill Square shopping centre, will be the first in Sussex, creating over 150 jobs. It replaces the former Debenhams unit and spans just under 6,700 square metres across two floors, offering a selection of affordable furniture and home goods.

The store opens at 10am on 14 August, with the first 100 IKEA Family members receiving a bag containing a gift card. Prizes inside these envelopes will vary from £1 to £1,000, providing an added incentive for early visitors. The store aims to serve both local residents and tourists, being conveniently located near Brighton's seafront and city centre.

Will There Be a Popup Shop Before the Major Opening?

There has been no official confirmation of a pop-up shop or temporary outlet prior to the store's opening. The company has not announced any pre-opening sales or smaller trial locations in Brighton, suggesting that the focus is on the official opening day.

What Makes the Brighton Location Different from Other IKEA Stores?

Unlike larger out-of-town branches, IKEA Brighton has a smaller footprint, at roughly 6,700 square metres. This means some furniture items will be available only for delivery or click and collect, rather than on-site browsing. The store's central location makes it more accessible for those travelling by bus, bike, or train, compared to previous plans for a large store in Lancing, which was scrapped in 2021 due to changing shopping habits.

How Will the Store Serve Local Needs?

The new store aims to offer everything customers need for their homes, with a focus on convenience. There will be a variety of products suitable for city living, with some items available for immediate collection and others via next-day click and collect or home delivery.

IKEA has introduced pricing options for delivery, with free postage for products under 15kg for IKEA Family members, and a flat fee of £5 (Approximately $6.60) for others.

Community Reactions and Business Impact

The store's arrival has generated mixed reactions locally. Mark Buchanan-Smith, Churchill Square's manager, expressed enthusiasm about IKEA's role as a main anchor tenant. Brighton & Hove City Council leader Bella Sankey called the opening a sign of confidence in the city, highlighting the potential for new jobs and investment.

However, some small business owners are less optimistic. George Diplocks, who runs Diplock's Yard in North Laine, remarked that he did not expect the new store to significantly impact his business. He pointed out that many customers now prefer cafes and restaurants over shopping, making the effect on small shops uncertain.

The opening of IKEA Brighton marks the company's third city centre store in the UK, with expectations of attracting both residents and visitors. Although there are no plans for a pre-opening pop-up shop, the event on 14 August is set to draw significant attention. The store's location, community involvement, and tailored product offerings are designed to make it a notable addition to Brighton's retail scene.