Ikea, the world’s biggest furniture retailer, is warning customers of delays to their orders due to the diversion of ships in the Red Sea.
The unprecedented congestion in the Red Sea is causing delays for good that were typically shipped via Suez Canal. The Suez Canal is a vital waterway for international trade, linking Europe and Asia, and normally meals around 50 vessels a day, but the current blockage has dropped this to less than 20.
Ikea recently released a statement saying that their products will be delayed due to the disruption, and that they are “working hard to minimize the impact.”
The blockage of the canal is being blamed on a technical issue with the workings of a Japanese container ship, the Ever Given. The 400 metre long vessel, carrying cargo meant for Europe from Asia, ran aground in the canal in March 2021. Despite attempts to refloat the ship, it still remains stuck and blocking the waterway, as well as causing delays to goods being shipped from Egypt to Europe and beyond.
Ikea store representatives have urged customers not to worry, and that the delays will be short-term. However, shoppers can expect possible delays on the delivery and arrival of their furniture and other homeware, due to the disruption of the Red Sea.
The effect of the blockage has been felt all around the world, and many Ikea customers will have to wait longer for their newest products. The company has apologised for the inconvenience caused and thanked their customers for their patience as they work to deliver their orders as soon as possible.
“Ikea: Avoid the Wait-Red Sea Diversions Delay Products
