The first IKEA store in Bulgaria opened on Tuesday 20th at 10:00 with the traditional official ceremony.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and the Ambassador of Sweden in Bulgaria, H.E. Helena Pilsas - Ahlin, made the traditional "log cutting" outside the store with the assistance of Mr. Vassilis Fourlis, Executive Chairman of Fourlis Group Board of Directors.
This traditional ceremony was made after the christening by the Bishop of Sofia Yoan Znepolski.
The official opening was supported by the representatives of state institutionsand many other distinguished guests. The business community was strongly present in the opening, a lot of representatives of influential companies were at the event, showing their support to the business principles of IKEA.
In his opening speech, Mr. Vassilis Fourlis highlighted, that it is an honor and a pleasure to represent the IKEA brand in Bulgaria and to share a vision for affordable quality in our everyday lives.
During the first 3 hours of operation, IKEA store in Sofia was visited by around 4000 people. The store will be open until 21 h. By the end of the week, live bands were performing in front of the IKEA store, welcoming and entertaining the first customers, coming to feel the IKEA experience. On the 29000 sq.m. in the store the visitors will enjoy more than 7500 different products for the home and 55 ready room setting solutions. They can rest in the restaurant and leave their children at the kids' corner Smaland, equipped with trained personnel.
