New Zealand’s job market may be bleak, but there’s a glimmer of hope for locals who are looking for work in the retail sector.
The Swedish company IKEA says it’s “significantly expanded its recruitment efforts” and will employ more than 500 people at its new Sylvia Park store, which will open later this year. It had originally planned to hire 400 workers.
As of May 25, 15,000 people had applied for advertised roles at the store, highlighting the strong interest in a career with the world’s largest home furnishing retailer.
Although most of the roles will be open for applications from early July, recruitment has already started, with 66 “co-workers” onboard and more onboarding every two weeks from now until November 2.
IKEA New Zealand people and culture manager Lauren Clegg says: “We’re excited to welcome self-starting, values-driven New Zealanders who are passionate about creating a better everyday life at home.
“We’re not just offering jobs, we’re offering the opportunity to build a meaningful career in a purpose-led, global business.”
Nutritious, low-cost meals served daily in the co-worker restaurant are one of the many benefits on offer.
Available roles span a range of departments, supported by inclusive policies and a strong commitment to work-life balance.
Co-workers enjoy five weeks of paid annual leave, along with paid parental, family, and community leave, supporting them through every stage of life and career.
“At IKEA, we call our employees ‘co-workers’ because no matter the role, we work and grow together,” Clegg says.
“Our Swedish heritage fosters a strong sense of togetherness, ensuring everyone feels welcome, included, and treated equally.”
Set to be one of New Zealand’s largest retail employers this year, IKEA is recruiting across various departments including warehouse logistics, sales, food, customer relations, product quality and recovery, and remote customer meeting points.
IKEA co-workers receive benefits including five weeks of paid annual leave, affordable meals, employee discounts, digital entertainment perks, performance bonuses, loyalty Superannuation contributions and well-being support.
As part of its recruitment drive, IKEA planned to launch a giant interactive billboard at the Eastern Viaduct on July 11, followed by an appearance at the One New Zealand Warriors NRL game at Go Media Stadium on July 13.
“The installation features a giant Allen key, a playful nod to IKEA’s flatpack heritage,” Clegg says.
“When turned, the key reveals a QR code linking directly to IKEA’s job portal, where visitors can explore open roles and apply.
“As a memento, everyone who engages with the activation will receive an information card along with a giveaway, either an iconic FRAKTA blue bag or an IKEA Allen key keyring.
“The Allen key, known to many New Zealanders as the ‘hex key’, has long been a symbol of IKEA’s hands-on spirit.
“It represents the self-starting, practical mindset that defines a career at IKEA and the idea anyone can make it with the right tools and mindset.”
People can apply for roles at IKEA’s new Sylvia Park store online at www.IKEA.co.nz/careers.
