Ingvar Kamprad
1926-2018
Founding IKEA, a company that makes affordable furniture for homes around the world
Early Life
Ingvar Kamprad was born in 1926 on a small farm called Elmtaryd near the village of Agunnaryd in Sweden. As a child, he loved finding clever ways to earn money. When he was very young, he sold matches to neighbors by riding his bike.
Ingvar noticed that if he bought things in large amounts, he could sell them for less and still make a little money. This idea of saving and sharing savings with others stayed with him for his whole life.
Starting a Business
In 1943, when Ingvar was just 17 years old, he started a small company called IKEA. The name came from his initials (Ingvar Kamprad) and the places where he grew up (Elmtaryd and Agunnaryd). At first, IKEA sold simple items like pens, wallets, and picture frames.
A few years later, Ingvar decided to sell furniture. He wanted to help people buy nice-looking furniture without spending too much money. This idea was very new at the time and excited many families.
A Smart New Idea
One of IKEA’s smartest ideas was to sell furniture in flat boxes. Instead of shipping big, heavy pieces, IKEA furniture could be taken home and built by customers. This saved space, money, and time.
Ingvar also worked closely with designers to make furniture that was simple, useful, and easy to build. Many IKEA products were named after places in Sweden, which made the company feel friendly and fun.
Growing Around the World
IKEA grew quickly and opened stores in many countries. People liked that IKEA stores were big, colorful, and full of ideas for decorating homes. Families could walk through rooms that looked like real houses.
Even when he became very successful, Ingvar lived a simple life. He believed that being careful with money helped keep prices low for customers.
Legacy
Ingvar Kamprad passed away in 2018, but his ideas still shape IKEA today. The company continues to focus on good design, low prices, and helping people enjoy their homes.
Ingvar’s story shows that big dreams can start small. With creativity and hard work, one person can change how the world lives at home.
🎉 Fun Facts
Ingvar began selling small items like matches when he was a young child.
The name IKEA comes from Ingvar’s initials and the farm and village where he grew up.
IKEA furniture is famous for being packed in flat boxes.
Ingvar liked to live simply, even after becoming very successful.
Many IKEA product names are inspired by Swedish places.