Winnipeg’s first IKEA store will open to the public on Nov. 28, but the company offered up an advance look for media on Wednesday.
“I don’t think I could have imagined the buzz before I came to Winnipeg,” said Maegan Sheskey from IKEA.
She said the showroom on the second floor is where IKEA aims to build excitement and inspiration, with 55 spots set up to look like living rooms, kitchens and bedrooms.
For the next week, crews will work on the finishing touches.
“We have seven days. We still have a few things to do, but we’re ready,” said Sheskey.
IKEA has also hired 12 Winnipeg police officers to primarily help with traffic for the first five days that the store is open.
Some are raising concerns over the increased traffic flow each week in the area.
"The estimates are 20,000 to 30,000 additional cars in a week. That's significant," said Coun. Paula Havixbeck (Charleswood - Tuxedo Ward). "I think when people are stuck in traffic, it's really going to hit home. I mean, they're already stuck in traffic."
The stretch of road near the empty Kapyong Barracks is still just four lanes and the site has been mired in lawsuits.
Havixbeck said a permanent solution is needed.
IKEA is expecting thousands of people to arrive on opening day on Nov. 28.
The store will have extra security on hand, a DJ for entertainment and other facilities in place.
Store officials also said gift cards will be handed out to the first 1,000 people in line, along with a chance to win prizes.
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- to check out more images from the store, please head to CTV's photo gallery
