IKEA is set to open its new Chester store next month.

The new IKEA store will open its doors at the Greyhound Retail Park in the former Homebase site at 10am on Thursday 9 October.

The small store reflects a new format for the business, developed to be significantly faster and more cost-effective to open than traditional IKEA stores.

Following the recent opening of IKEA Harlow and IKEA Norwich, this is the third small store to open this year.

Located in retail parks, they utilise the existing structure, making them just as easy to assemble as the brand's famous flatpack furniture and completed at pace.

Andy MacGregor, unit manager for IKEA Chester, said: "We can't wait to open our new home in Chester.

"While a small store, customers can still expect the IKEA experience they know and love, including home furnishing inspiration, our signature food and expert planning services. And, of course, a warm welcome when we open our doors next month."

The opening of IKEA Chester forms part of the retailer's expansion strategy with the aim of bringing IKEA closer to where the many people live, work and socialise.

Customers can explore inspiring room sets, shop second-hand finds, plan their kitchens and take home a wide range of home furnishings and small furniture items the same day.

Other key features will include a showroom and market hall, featuring IKEA's most popular families, home furnishing accessories and limited-edition seasonal ranges.

There will also be online access to the full IKEA range, with the option of home delivery or free collection in 48 hours, planning services for kitchens and bedroom storage to help customers design their dream spaces and the opportunity to buy pre-loved IKEA products at even more affordable prices.

A selection of food will also be available at The Swedish Bite for those wanting to eat in or take away.

The opening of IKEA Chester has also unlocked new work opportunities in the area, led by a team of around 35.

IKEA Chester will be open Monday to Saturday 10am – 8pm and Sundays 10.30am - 4.30pm.