Ikea stores in Singapore will close from Apr 7 to May 4, in line with Singapore’s circuit breaker measures to curb the spread of Covid-19. Only businesses providing essential services are allowed to operate during this time.

However, although reports earlier today (Apr 5) stated that its popular bistro would remain open for takeaways, 8Days.sg has confirmed with Ikea's spokesperson that that will no longer be happening.

“We received advice today to suspend IKEA food operations and we will be closing the IKEA Restaurant, Bistro and Swedish Food Market along with our stores from April 7 to May 4,” said Ikea Southeast Asia’s head of corporate communications, Corinna Schuler. “At IKEA, we want to do our part to help stop the spread of Covid-19.”

Earlier today, pictures of snaking queues at Ikea's stores in Alexandra and Tampines went viral (below). This, despite the Swedish furniture behemoth's social media posts, warning folks of extremely high visitor volume at its stores.

While you won’t be able to tapao meatballs and chicken wings, you still can shop for furniture and other products online. “The good news is that we have received clarification today: IKEA will be able to continue operating ecommerce in the coming month,” said Ms Schuler.

“We are, as of Sunday night, adjusting our websites and re-opening slots for booking deliveries in the week ahead,” she added. Scheduled deliveries will also go ahead as planned.

More info at www.ikea.sg.