By noon yesterday, I had heard mention of the new IKEA store 3 times.  And by 5pm - that number grew to at least 15. Word spread quickly that there would be an IKEA store opening in the Denver area and while shoppers that are familiar with IKEA are delighted, there are further implications of the news as well.

Let's face it - the media tells us every day how rough the economy is over and over across the board nation wide.  But we have been hearing some other messages in the Denver area, such as this latest report that I posted about:  The Health of the Denver Real Estate Market.  The bottom line is, IKEA is not going to build a store where they see no promise for a lucrative future - so the fact that they are expanding into Colorado is good news.  

So for those that like the IKEA style from Sweden - you will soon be able to shop without driving to Utah or Phoenix. IKEA has long been a favorite with first time home buyers as it offers a great selection of higher quality furniture and accessories at affordable prices.  On more than one occasion I have had had home buyers in Denver- especially first time home buyers tell me that they are having furniture shipped into town from IKEA - so this is also good news for those IKEA fans.  It will also create more jobs in the area and its a good indicator that the Denver area economy is doing better than other areas and can support this growth.

Its looking like IKEA will be located near I25 and County Line Road, just a bit north of Park Meadows Mall.  An opening date has not yet been announced but its sounding like it is about 2 years out.