Ikea is ramping up its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across Germany, with plans to install fast-charging stations at all 54 stores and other locations in the country. The move is part of Ikea’s commitment to sustainability and will see technology partner Mer install a mix of Alpitronic devices with 50 to 400 kW DC power, resulting in over 1,000 fast-charging points within three years.
The new fast-charging stations will cater to customers, employees, and EVs used in freight forwarding services, all powered by certified green electricity. While Ikea has not disclosed the size of the charging parks at its stores, the total number of charging points suggests that each location will have a significant number, likely in the double digits. Charging will be accessible using only the Mer ConnectME app or a standard charging card from a roaming provider.
The first charging stations are expected to open in spring 2025, with plans for further expansion based on demand. Ikea and Mer already collaborate in the UK, sharing a vision of sustainable electromobility that aligns with Ikea’s goal of becoming a climate-positive company.
Otto Loserth, Managing Director at Mer Germany, expressed the shared commitment to sustainability, stating, “Together, we want to change the world for the better and make the future more sustainable. Mer’s vision of thinking about electromobility in a holistic, customer-friendly, and sustainable way harmonizes perfectly with Ikea’s goal.”
Ikea has been installing EV chargers in its European stores since 2013, with two-thirds of its German stores equipped with charging points by 2018. The company now aims to cater to the fast-charging needs of current electric vehicles, reflecting its focus on reducing emissions in the mobility sector.
As part of its sustainability strategy, Ikea is also committed to decarbonizing its fleet and is a member of the EV100+ initiative. Launched in 2017 by the non-profit organization Climate Group and ten founding members, including Deutsche Post DHL, Vattenfall, Baidu, and Ikea, the initiative aims to decarbonize fleets by 2030.
