We believe physical spaces have a quiet superpower – they bring people together. In a world that’s increasingly digital, with rising rates of loneliness, and a growing need for local belonging, creating real-life moments of connection feels more important than ever.
At the heart of this, is co-creation with partners, allowing physical spaces to become hubs of innovation, blending ideas and introducing fresh, inclusive concepts. For Ingka Centres, the beauty of our global portfolio lies in the diverse forms, shapes, and sizes of our meeting places. Each location brings its own brilliance, contributing to our overall success. Success isn’t achieved in isolation – it’s shaped by the insights we gain from others.
This success is a direct result of working side-by-side with our partners. As a result, our Meeting Places represent the perfect platform to explore new ideas and introduce fresh concepts – and we’re always open to co-creation with partners who align with our values.
FROM IDEAS TO IMPACT
One of the ways in which we achieve this is through our Ingka Centres Futures platform – which focuses on developing and launching new, innovative business concepts across our global network of meeting places. Focused on collaboration, they are designed to help our partners build, launch, and run new businesses in real locations, with real visitors. Working with our local partners allows us to form stronger connections with the communities we serve, co-creating with both the communities and our partners to tailor each location to local needs.
This can be seen through our unique concepts on offer at Ingka Centres’ meeting places globally – from Hej!Workshop coworking spaces in Stockholm, Paris and San Francisco, to the Saluhall food experience in San Francisco, as well as initiatives that support circular living and second-hand culture, tailored to the values and needs of each local community.
CREATING WITH EVERYONE IN MIND
We embrace diversity and strive to create inclusive Meeting Places where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to thrive – no matter their background or identity. Partnership plays a key role in allowing us to expand our offering beyond our own capabilities to ensure this is lived and felt across all of our locations. This ensures retail spaces are future-proof, as they are designed to serve the needs of today’s consumers while also resonating with younger audiences, appealing to a wide range of generations.
The modern retail landscape revolves around meeting people where they are and being a valued part of their everyday life. Our Meeting Places are designed to be community hubs that are convenient to access, inclusive, and full of experiences that bring joy and value to people’s lives
At Ingka Centres, we believe in retail experiences for the many people. This means we provide accessible retail experiences for everyone of all ages and economic status – and encourage people to come together and use our meeting places to foster belonging in their communities.
DESIGNING FOR PEOPLE AND PLANET
Sustainability isn’t a feature – it’s the foundation. The commitment to building communities is driven on a global level. We’re always curious about what our visitors want from their community hubs so we can adapt our meeting places in the right way.
Our Life in Communities report is testament to this: Published last year, the report provides unique insights into the ultimate joy providers for people around the world. A big part of what drives Ingka Centres is designing meeting places that work not just for people, but for the planet too.
Leading with a “People & Planet” mindset allows us to focus on creating sustainable, community-focused meeting places that positively impact people, communities, and the planet. One Planet is how we bring our passion for sustainability into the everyday atmosphere – a lively space with exhibitions, markets, workshops, and ways to get involved, both in person and online. Designed to encourage, inspire, and empower the many to live within the means of our planet.
PROVIDING A SPACE FOR PEOPLE TO PLAY
In a world of algorithms, our Meeting Places are designed for real-world connection. Alongside our trusted partners, we are focused on creating modern community hubs where people can come together outside of the home and socialise while doing what they enjoy. These are spaces that evolve retail beyond the shop and encourage shoppers to take the opportunity to eat, work, play, and connect. We are helping people rediscover that special feeling of being around other people. When people spend time together, special things happen – from creativity and self-development to love and friendship. At Italie Deux in Paris, we brought a little unexpected joy to people’s day — a playful moment that reminded everyone how fun and connection can show up in the most surprising places.
With play forming an important part of the Ingka Centres ethos, to mark International Day of Play, we partnered with the world’s first pillow fighting league to deliver a unique, and playful event that attracted diverse audiences and reinforced the value of our centers to communities and partners alike. This initiative aligns with our commitment to creating experience-led destinations that foster emotional connections, community engagement, and demonstrate how Ingka Centres is driving relevance in an evolving retail landscape.
BUILDING SPACES THAT SHAPE TOMORROW
Shifting perceptions of the shopping experience requires collaboration. As we look ahead to the future, our focus will continue to be on creating points of connection for people. Re-imaging what the shopping experience can be by working with our partners to blend innovation, personalization, and community to meet the evolving needs of our customers. Bringing even more play, purpose, and partnership into everyday life.
At the senior level, we’re focused on building partnerships that go far beyond leases. We’re co-developing strategies, sharing insights, and creating environments where both businesses and communities can thrive.
We’re not just shaping spaces – we’re shaping how people live, connect, and belong. By blending innovation with inclusion, and purpose with play, we’re building Meeting Places that matter – for people, for communities, and for the planet.
Cindy Andersen
Managing Director at Ingka Centres
