When IKEA opens the doors to its first New Zealand store in late 2025, it will mark a milestone moment not only for Kiwi shoppers but also for the global home furnishing giant.
Behind that expansion is Fabian Winterbine, Expansion Manager for IKEA Australia and New Zealand, who will take the stage at RECON25 on 13 November at Auckland’s Aotea Centre.
With more than three decades at IKEA, Fabian has worked across continents and disciplines, helping shape the brand’s evolution from its Scandinavian roots into a global retail powerhouse. His journey began humbly in a Melbourne store but has since taken him into leadership roles across Australia, China, and the wider Asia Pacific region, alongside contributions to projects in Europe, Asia, the UK, and the United States. Today, he is spearheading the omnichannel entry into New Zealand – an ambitious project that will bring IKEA’s first local store, fulfilment networks, and digital channels to life.
Flatpacks & Future Plans: IKEA’s Expansion Journey
His keynote session will pull back the curtain on what it takes to deliver large-scale growth in an era of rapid retail change. Attendees can expect insights into how IKEA is balancing physical stores with digital experiences, experimenting with new formats and fulfilment models, and responding to the trends driving modern consumer behaviour.
Retail is no longer just about selling products, it’s about creating accessible, inclusive, and future-ready spaces where customers can connect with brands in ways that feel seamless and meaningful,” Fabian says.
From sustainability and urban living to omnichannel convenience and accessibility, Fabian will explore the forces shaping retail on both sides of the Tasman, offering practical takeaways for businesses of all sizes.
As RECON25 explores the theme “Retail’s Next Chapter,” Fabian’s perspective promises to be a highlight – showcasing how one of the world’s most recognisable brands continues to stay ahead of the curve while building for the future.
Early bird pricing for RECON25 closes on 8 September. Don’t miss the chance to hear from retail leaders redefining the industry.
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