Ikea to Shut Seven China Stores as Property Slump Forces Strategic Rethink

Ikea to Shut Seven China Stores as Property Slump Forces Strategic Rethink

  • January 7, 2026

Furniture retailer Ikea is set to close seven of its stores in China, adjusting its footprint in response to prolonged weakness in the country’s property market and shifting consumer behaviour. The move highlights how even well established global brands are being forced to

Service Robots in Chinese Retail: AI Companions or Cost Cutters?

Service Robots in Chinese Retail: AI Companions or Cost Cutters?

  • October 16, 2025

Across China’s retail landscape, service robots have moved from novelty to necessity. Shopping malls, supermarkets, and restaurants are increasingly deploying intelligent robots for customer engagement, delivery, and assistance. The pandemic accelerated this trend, but technological maturity has ensured its permanence. These robots are