IKEA Stores May Become Emergency Shelters in Denmark

IKEA stores in Denmark could be transformed into emergency shelters or temporary hospitals during crises such as power outages, floods or attacks on critical infrastructure. The stores could provide beds, meals, generators and other essential resources to support people affected by emergencies.

The initiative is part of Europe’s broader effort to strengthen emergency preparedness amid growing concerns about cyberattacks, sabotage and other security threats. IKEA has joined Denmark’s Corporate Coalition for Crisis Preparedness, a network connecting businesses with authorities to identify resources that could be used during emergencies. The European Union is also encouraging closer cooperation between governments and private companies.

Other businesses are preparing for similar situations. Danish supermarket operator Salling Group is developing stores capable of operating for up to 48 hours without electricity or internet access. Countries including Finland, Estonia and Poland also have systems to mobilise private-sector resources during crises. IKEA previously converted a store in Spain into a shelter for more than 600 people during deadly floods in 2024.

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