On April 17, 2025, the Swedish company Inter IKEA Systems B.V. officially registered a trademark in Russia, marking a significant step in the company's ongoing relationship with the Russian market. The registration was carried out by the Federal Service for Intellectual Property (Rospatent) and was published on the website of the Federal Institute of Industrial Property (FIPS).
The trademark application, which was submitted in July 2023, grants Inter IKEA Systems B.V. exclusive rights to the brand until July 28, 2033. The trademark features the familiar "IKEA" inscription in black letters on a white background, a design that has become synonymous with affordable and stylish home furnishings.
Interestingly, this trademark registration covers a broad spectrum of 18 different classes of goods and services. These include paint materials, furniture trading, furniture assembly services, and even catering organization. This wide-ranging coverage suggests that the company may be preparing for future business activities in Russia, although no official statement regarding the resumption of operations has been made.
The situation surrounding IKEA's operations in Russia has been complex since the company suspended its activities in March 2022 due to geopolitical tensions and sanctions. Following this suspension, in June 2022, IKEA began seeking buyers for its production assets in the country. The decision to halt operations was a significant blow, as IKEA is one of the world's largest retail chains for furniture and home goods, known for its innovative designs and affordable prices.
One of the largest factories, Ikea-Industry Novgorod, was sold to Slotex in November 2024. This factory was part of a trio of production facilities located in the Leningrad, Kirov, and Novgorod regions. The sale of these assets came amid a challenging climate for foreign brands operating in Russia, as many companies reevaluated their presence in the market following the onset of the conflict.
In a recent development, the new owner of the former Swedish IKEA factory in Tikhvin, the timber processing company Luzales, reported a remarkable increase in furniture production. According to the company's statements, Luzales has ramped up production by 88% and is now selling more furniture than IKEA ever did in the country. This shift highlights the evolving landscape of the furniture market in Russia and the ongoing impact of IKEA's exit.
Legal experts have weighed in on IKEA's trademark registration, suggesting that the company may be acting to protect its brand from potential misuse. Vyacheslav Igumnov, a lawyer specializing in intellectual property, explained to the publication Kommersant that the company might be concerned about the premature expiration of its trademarks due to non-use, which in Russia can occur after just three years. By registering the trademark, IKEA is taking steps to safeguard its brand identity against others who may wish to operate under similar logos.
Despite the trademark registration, analysts remain cautious about predicting IKEA's return to the Russian market. The company's assets were sold without an option for buyback, complicating any potential plans for re-entry. However, Gazprombank, which acquired the assets, has hinted at the possibility of returning these assets to their original owners.
The uncertainty surrounding IKEA's future in Russia is compounded by the broader context of foreign brands in the region. Many companies have faced challenges in navigating the political and economic landscape, leading to a reevaluation of their operations. While some brands have exited the market entirely, others have sought to adapt and find new ways to engage with consumers.
As the situation continues to evolve, the trademark registration by Inter IKEA Systems B.V. signals that the company is not entirely stepping away from the Russian market. It remains to be seen whether this move will pave the way for a future return or if it is merely a strategic maneuver to protect its brand.
In summary, the trademark registration by IKEA in Russia comes at a time of significant change and uncertainty. With a wide array of goods and services covered by the registration, the company appears to be laying the groundwork for potential future operations in the country. However, the complexities of the current geopolitical climate and the status of its assets make any predictions about a return difficult.
As consumers and industry experts watch closely, the unfolding story of IKEA's relationship with the Russian market will undoubtedly continue to capture attention in the coming months.
