The Meaning Behind IKEA Product Names
As a renowned global furniture retailer, IKEA is not only known for its stylish and affordable home decor items but also for its unique and slightly challenging product names. These names, which often lead customers to joyfully mispronounce them, are actually deeply meaningful. This article delves into the naming conventions used by IKEA and the fascinating reasons behind them.
Understanding IKEA's Naming System
Like many successful companies, IKEA has a carefully crafted system for naming its products. This system is not only a strategic marketing tool but also a way to create a cohesive brand identity. Each category of products has specific themes that give them distinct names, often inspired by geographical, cultural, and even linguistic elements. This naming approach not only adds a unique flair to the brand but also makes products more memorable to customers.
Bathroom and Bed Textiles
Bathroom and bed textiles, described as 'Bed and Bath Accessories' by IKEA, are usually named after Swedish lakes and bodies of water. For instance, you might find a towel named after a serene lake in Sweden. Similarly, bed textiles are named after flowers and plants, which not only suggests natural beauty and comfort but also makes them easy to identify and remember.
Furniture
Furniture, including beds, sofas, and dining tables, often bears Norwegian place names. For example, a bed named after a Norwegian town might give a sense of Scandinavian simplicity and elegance. This naming convention not only aligns with the cultural heritage of IKEA’s founder, Ingvar Kamprad, but also helps in creating a strong brand identity.
Bookcases and Office Furniture
The naming of bookcases and office furniture is particularly interesting. Bookcases are named after professions or Scandinavian boy’s names, adding a touch of personality and craftsmanship. Desks, chairs, and swivel chairs, on the other hand, are named after Scandinavian boy’s names, suggesting a blend of functionality and character. This naming approach not only makes the products unique but also reflects the company's commitment to innovation and design.
Fabrics, Rugs, and Children's Products
Fabrics, including curtains and cushions, often have names inspired by flowers and plants, just like bed textiles. Rugs, however, are named after Danish place names, adding a diverse and international touch to the brand. Children's products are named after animals, birds, and adjectives, making them more appealing and familiar to the target audience.
Kitchenware and Lighting
Kitchen accessories, such as bowls, vases, and candle holders, are often named after Swedish place names, adjectives, spices, and fruits, adding a blend of local and international inspiration. The same goes for lighting, which is named after units of measurement, seasons, months, days, shipping terms, and nautical terms, giving a sense of precision and practicality. Finally, rugs and other floor coverings are named after Danish place names, maintaining the brand's Nordic heritage.
The Reason Behind the Naming System
The naming system used by IKEA is not just a marketing ploy but a functional strategy. It is rooted in the company's history and the personal influence of its founder, Ingvar Kamprad, who struggled with dyslexia. By using names that are easier to pronounce and remember, IKEA surpasses the limitations of traditional inventory numbers. This approach not only aids marketing efforts but also improves customer satisfaction and recall.
Conclusion
The naming conventions of IKEA are a testament to the company's commitment to innovation, culture, and customer engagement. By using specific themes and inspirations, IKEA creates a cohesive brand identity and makes its products more memorable. Whether you are a loyal customer or a curious observer, understanding the meanings behind IKEA's product names adds a unique layer of enjoyment to your interaction with the brand.