The snow has melted and the rain appears to have gone – for now. So now you’re looking forward to the rest of spring, sun – and of course the opening of Devon’s first IKEA store.
Originally scheduled to open on May 1, Ikea chiefs will now welcome the world into Exeter on Thursday, May 10.
In the run up to the big day, here are Martin Lewis’ Money Saving Expert list of tips and tricks to make your trips to the superstore cheaper and quicker –including free coffee, events, and a map to Bargain Corner.
Free bottomless tea and coffee
There’s some huge bargains to be had if you get an IKEA Family members card – reports Devon Live.
You can sign up online or in store for this free loyalty card. Once you get one you can enjoy free bottomless tea and coffee on weekdays, saving £1 per person.
And if you forget your card, there are points in the store where you can type in your membership details so you can still use it.
Breakfast can be a BARGAIN too
A trip to the IKEA cafe does not always have to be about meatballs – although we totally appreciate this is a highlight for many.
The cafe does serve other items – for instance you can get a small cooked breakfast for £1.75 or £2.50 for a large.
If you have the Family loyalty card you can get 75p knocked off a six-piece cooked breakfast, and a nine-piece dish for just £2.50 between 9.30am and 11am on weekdays.
It’s cheaper than Nando’s
Ok so you may love Nando’s but IKEA does offer a cheaper alternative with it’s Piri Piri chicken at a fraction of the price. It comes with sweet potato fries and mini corn on the cob for just £4.95. That’s 30% cheaper than a similar meal at Nandos.
An extra 10% off IKEA sales
We have mentioned a few benefits of having the Family loyalty card but another good reason to sign up is you get an extra 10% off in the sales.
Bring your own bags
At 50p a pop, IKEA’s sturdy carrier bags can soon add up, so save yourself some cash and bring your own.
Furniture hacks
The internet is full of ideas for how to tranform your flat pack furniture into something wonderful. A quick ‘IKEA hacks’ Google search will bring up a selection if you’re feeling creative!
Have a look at Bargain Corner
The home of reduced goods at IKEA, Bargain Corner is a section of ex-display and damaged products often found by the tills. But have a good dig, damage is often as minor as a slightly ripped box!
It has free in store events
IKEA often holds workshops and events in store, including classes for kids. This half term, the Birmingham store is offering a kids Magic Show on April 10, and 12 from 11am-4pm and Face Painting on April 11, and 13 at the same times.
Free insurance
Your IKEA Family card (yes that again) also gets you free product insurance for ‘accidental damage on the way home and during assembly.’
This excludes discounted products and only applies to those bought in store.
IKEA said damaged products are replaced on a like-for- like basis or with a gift card containing the item’s current selling value.
There’s a free creche
Save on childcare costs and book your kids into an IKEA creche (SMÅLAND) for up to an hour while you shop. The creche is normally at the front of the store, and is supervised by childcare professionals.
Try before you buy
IKEA has a virtual reality app so if you’re not too sure, you can try before you buy.
This uses virtual reality to show you what a piece of furniture would look like in your room before you buy it.
It is currently only available on iOS devices.
How to dodge the queues
If you’re looking for a quick trip to the superstore, a glance at Google’s free Popular Times feature can tell you when your local story is quietest. Check it out for yourself by searching your local store’s name on Google.
Replace missing parts for free
The store will replace small missing parts, like Allen keys, screws, and bolts, for free if you head to the returns desk at your local store. You can even arrange home delivery by calling customer service on 02036450000.
Have your measurements ready to go
Save time and needless trips back to the store by having your measurements prepared and written down.
Also remember to bring a measuring tape with you on your trip if you’re shopping for large items – IKEA’s paper measuring tapes only reach a metre.
