Metrikkimallit

Metrikkimallit, also known as metric assortment or metric assortment store, is a retail concept that focuses on offering a wide range of products, primarily at a specific price point or with a business-friendly cost structure. The term is often associated with IKEA, a Swedish furniture retailer that exemplifies this concept.

In a metrikkimallit, customers browse and collect products based on their size and weight rather than department or category. The assortment is arranged according to a modular system, usually featuring products organized into specific square meters or linear meters. This layout enables customers to pick and choose items without the guidance of sales staff.

Metrikkimallit is often characterized by efficient product flow and a low-overhead operating model. Inventory management is simplified as all products have a uniform price per unit area or length. This structure reduces labor costs, as customer assistance is relatively straightforward and automated in-store navigation assists the shopping experience.

The success of IKEA's business model has been attributed to its metrikkimallit, which was first observed in its Karlskrona store in the late 1950s. By providing customers with independence during the shopping process and limiting human interaction to a minimum, IKEA's strategy contributes to low expenses and resolves storage limitations across its locations.