IKEA shoppers will be eager to visit the chain's brand new store in the UK, which is the first of its kind in the country. The Swedish furniture chain, which currently has 22 stores across the UK, has just thrown open the doors to its 12,787 square foot store in Croydon, London. It has partnered with the sport and outdoor retailer Decathlon to open the hybrid store, stocking more than 5,000 products from the French brand.

A number of activities will be taking place at the store this weekend to celebrate the opening. Former Crystal Palace and Republic of Ireland footballer Clinton Morrison joined the Mayor of Croydon, Jason Perry, to cut the ribbon and celebrate the launch of the new store. The storefront will be transformed into a community sports playground this Saturday, complete with a mobile climbing wall, DJs, family activities and prizes throughout the day. Additionally, the first 100 customers through the doors today received a free QUECHUA 10L backpack and a £20 gift voucher.

Located at the busy Valley Retail Park, the store will offer a range of Decathlon's most popular services, including its Buy Back initiative, which allows customers to trade in pre-loved gear for cash while keeping high-quality equipment in play for longer.

"The new Decathlon unit coming to IKEA Croydon is the latest example of us investing in and reimagining our stores to ensure customers and co-workers continue to get the most out of these spaces," said the market manager for IKEA Croydon, Kim Chin-Sung.

The Mayor of Croydon, Jason Perry, said: "This is a fantastic day for Croydon and the local people. Decathlon is a brand that believes sport belongs to everyone, and that spirit is exactly what this borough is about. Having Decathlon here alongside IKEA is a brilliant combination, and we are proud to welcome them to Croydon."

A Decathlon spokesperson added: "Opening at IKEA Croydon is a major milestone for us. This partnership brings sport closer to everyday life, making it easier for local families to discover new activities and get active together."

Both brands are committed to offering "welldesigned, highquality products at accessible prices" at the new store.

Decathlon has grown significantly over the years, having been founded in France in 1976. It opened its first UK store at Surrey Quays back in 1999 and now operates in over 70 countries.

Monica Cedres, London City director, Decathlon UK, said: "This partnership is all about making an active lifestyle as easy as a trip to IKEA. Croydon is a borough full of energy, and whether you're looking for technical help with a PB or just grabbing your home and sport essentials in one go, we're ready to help South London discover the joy of being active together."