Home Insights Ikea's UK boss on the secret to its success

Ikea's UK boss on the secret to its success

Peter Jelkeby started his career at Ikea as a forklift truck driver. Here he talks about how it became one of the biggest retailers in the UK and his career to the top

Ikea's UK boss on the secret to its success

Why has Ikea been such a success in the UK? Why did it open its first shop in Warrington, Cheshire? What is "chuck out your chintz" all about? And what does this unique business look for in staff?

In part two of our look at how Ikea became one of the biggest retailers in the world, Graham Ruddick speaks to Peter Jelkeby, the chief executive and chief sustainability officer for Ikea in the UK and Ireland, and a man who started his career with Ikea as a forklift truck driver.

Then, Graham speaks to Dougal Shaw about what they have both learned about Ikea and the reasons for its success after studying the business. In case you missed it, in part one of our look at Ikea, Dougal Shaw spoke to Jesper Brodin, the chief executive of Ingka Group, the business that runs Ikea shops around the world...

Related and recommended

Why a mission will drive your momentum

Why a mission will drive your momentum

Whether winning an Olympic gold medal or scaling your business, an overriding sense of purpose helps you punch above your weight

Rio Ferdinand: How to win at business pitches

Rio Ferdinand: How to win at business pitches

Former Manchester United and England football star Rio Ferdinand shares advice on how to convince people to back your business ideas

The disruptor’s mindset: How one leader is reimagining London’s luxury property market

The disruptor’s mindset: How one leader is reimagining London’s luxury property market

He’s sold more than $6bn worth of homes, but for Daniel Daggers, the real investment has always been in people

Matt Dawson on winning, failing and finding the people who make you better

Matt Dawson on winning, failing and finding the people who make you better

The Rugby World Cup winner turned business leader reveals how lessons from elite sport have shaped his approach to leadership, teamwork and growth

Apply to become a member

Click here to review our privacy policy.

Explore membership