SWARCO and IKEA collaborate on better parking solutions

Background

Next to IKEA's store in Svågertorp, Malmö, lies Hubhult, an international meeting place and support function for the company's global operations. It is owned by IKEA Fastigheter AB and is home to approximately 1,000 office employees. It is also estimated that the office has around 200 visitors every day, and all car users must share just over 400 parking spaces in the area around the office.

Ingka AB, which manages the Swedish IKEA stores, has collaborated with SWARCO to invest in a smarter parking solution through a parking management system that guides drivers to available spaces. This means they don't have to drive around looking for a space, which reduces stress and saves time for the driver, as well as improving traffic flow in the area.
“It's a solution that makes it easier to find an available parking space. Digital signs showing the number of available parking spaces have been placed in strategic and visible locations as you arrive,” says Marie Larsson, workplace operations manager at Ingka AB.

A step towards a more sustainable workplace

The new system is not only an improvement for employees and visitors—it also benefits the surrounding area. Shorter lead times and less idling lead to reduced emissions and a better traffic environment around Hubhult and the IKEA store.
“We see this as an important part of our work to create a more sustainable experience for both our employees and visitors. At the same time, we gain valuable data on flows and occupancy, which helps us to plan and optimize even better for the future,” says Marie Larsson.