IKEA Pasay celebrates 'Store of the Year' honor, hall of fame status
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine branch of IKEA is basking in the glory of being awarded "Store of the Year" for 2025.
IKEA Pasay beat over 470 stores in 63 countries for the recognition, a major feat for the establishment which just turned four years old, and earned a permanent place in the "Store of the Year Hall of Fame."
Store manager Daniel Rivero, during a celebratory event last May 14, put the recognition into perspective by pointing out that markets like the United States and Germany have over 50 branches and yet the Philippines has one branch.
"It's not all about the performance of the business," Rivero said. "It's also about how the range is presented and adapted to respective markets."
Rivero thanked his team, co-workers, and fellow leaders while adding that the award was a starting point to become even better, "Togetherness is an important IKEA value and the Pasay branch is a perfect example of that."
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Anna Ferry, the ambassador of Sweden to the Philippines, described the combination of both countries within the Pasay branch as "a perfect match" because of the values and friendships that can be made.
"We do care for each other, kids, and families, and we want to provide the best equal opportunities for everyone," Ferry said, adding how impressed and proud she was of a "young, beginner" store winning.
Country retail manager Ricardo Pinheiro called the recognition the IKEA equivalent of Miss Universe.
Pasay mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano compared the achivement to a family member being giiven a medal or badge of honor, adding that it was "nothing less than well-deserved."
To cement the win last November, IKEA Pasay was awarded a trophy featuring a stone taken from an original wall built by IKEA's founder Ingvar Kamprad.
IKEA Philippines will also send 12 employees on a learning journey to the main headquarters in Älmhult, Sweden to deepen their connection to the home design brand's culture and values.
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