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

IKEA stores in Denmark could be transformed into emergency shelters or temporary hospitals in the event of major power outages, floods or attacks on critical infrastructure. The initiative is part of a plan through which authorities are seeking to mobilize private companies’ resources in crisis situations.

The commercial spaces could accommodate evacuated people, the restaurants could provide food, and generators could ensure that the buildings remain operational. Extra beds could be assembled quickly from products available in the stores. IKEA is a member of Denmark’s Coalition of Companies for Crisis Preparedness, a network comprising more than 200 companies and approximately 300,000 employees.

Preparations have been stepped up amid cyberattacks, incidents of sabotage and other hybrid threats that European officials have linked to activities by Russia, allegations rejected by Moscow. The EU Preparedness Strategy, launched in March 2025, encourages cooperation between authorities and companies.

The concept was tested in October 2024, when an IKEA store in Valencia sheltered more than 600 people following floods. In Denmark, a snowstorm in December 2021 forced six customers and approximately 24 employees to remain overnight in a store in Aalborg.