IKEA will temporarily close all UK and Ireland stores until further notice in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The closure includes Manchester’s Ashton-under-Lyne branch.
The furniture chain will be temporarily closing its stores from 6pm on Friday (March 20).
Bosses have not said when they expect them to reopen at this point.
IKEA had already closed its restaurants and cafés, but said it will now close fully in ‘these extraordinary circumstances’.
In a statement, IKEA said: “IKEA UK & Ireland today announced that, as a precautionary measure against the ongoing risk of COVID-19, it will temporarily close its stores to customers at 6pm on Friday 20 March.
“In line with recommendations from local authorities, IKEA had already put additional precautionary measures in place, including the closure of its restaurants, cafes and bistros; enhanced cleaning routines; and the closure of its outside playground facilities.
“Customers will continue to be able to shop online at IKEA.co.uk and have products delivered directly to their homes.
“They will be able to request contact-free deliveries if they prefer.
