IKEA’s theory is that whilst customers follow a zigzag path between displays, a hopefully disorientated customer feels compelled to grab things from the shelves as a few extra impulse purchases. Even though the stores have short-cuts to meet specific fire regulations, customers find these exits hard to spot as they navigate their way around the maze-like aisles and displays of flat-pack furniture. Therefore, ultimately, IKEA’s
number one priority is to try and keep their customers inside for as long as they can.
