IKEA could turn its stores in Denmark into shelters or temporary hospitals in the event of major crises

IKEA could turn its stores in Denmark into emergency shelters or temporary hospitals in the event of a widespread power outage, flooding or an attack on critical infrastructure, Reuters reports. The stores could provide accommodation, the restaurants would supply food, generators would keep the buildings operational, and extra beds could be assembled from products available in the warehouses.

The retailer is part of Denmark’s Corporate Coalition for Crisis Preparedness, a network that inventories the resources of private companies. IKEA says it can support authorities with space, supplies, staff and equipment. During the floods in Valencia in October 2024, one of the company’s stores accommodated more than 600 people.

The initiative comes amid European fears over sabotage, cyberattacks and other forms of hybrid warfare attributed to Russia, allegations rejected by Moscow. The European Union’s strategy for preparedness and crisis response, launched in March 2025, encourages cooperation between governments and the private sector.

Other countries are also expanding their plans: Denmark is preparing stores capable of operating without electricity or internet, Estonia is requiring hundreds of companies to maintain essential services, while Finland and Poland are using similar networks and regulations.