Business: Swedish furniture retailer IKEA says Florida stores in its future

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Swedish furniture retailer IKEA says Florida stores in its future

By HELEN HUNTLEY
Published December 19, 2005

Popular Swedish furniture retailer IKEA says it's coming to Florida - it just isn't saying where or when.

Last week, the company said it plans to build a 1.7-million-square-foot distribution center in Savannah, Ga., to serve current and future Southern stores, some of which are expected to be in Florida.

"We recognize we have lots of customers in Florida and no store," company spokesman Joseph Roth said. He said the company is evaluating major metropolitan areas in Florida and in other states.

An Atlanta store is the only southeastern presence for the retailer, whose specializing in sleek designs at modest prices borders on a cult phenomenon with consumers. Most furniture is sold unassembled.

Talk of the bay

Swedish furniture retailer IKEA says Florida stores in its future