NORFOLK, Va. - The new IKEA located near the Norfolk Premium Outlets officially opened its doors Wednesday.
The retailer welcomed its first shoppers starting at 9 a.m. Before doors actually opened, the parking lot was open for excited shoppers at 5 a.m.
Along with ready-to-assemble furniture, appliances and other items you might need in your home, the store also has a 354-seat restaurant where they plan to serve Swedish cuisine. Have kids? Don't worry - IKEA has a supervised children's play area inside their space as well to ensure your little one has a safe and fun place to let out some of their energy.
This IKEA location is the first one in Hampton Roads and the second location to open in the Commonwealth. The new store is 331,000 square feet, sitting on 19 acres of land.
Store manager Charlie Plisco is a Virginia Beach native.
"We are excited to open this milestone 50th IKEA store in the U.S. and second in the state of Virginia. We have received such a warm welcome from the Hampton Roads area and want to return the favor by welcoming our shoppers with food, fun and iconic IKEA products," Plisco said.
Entertainment for customers waiting in line started at 6 a.m., followed by the ceremony at 8:15 a.m.
Reporter Allison Mechanic was live at the location at 5 a.m. on News 3 This Morning.
Click here for our full coverage on the Norfolk IKEA location.
