Worried about not getting a table to eat? Japan’s IKEA rolls out an “insane reward” to encourage customers to leave on their own

IKEA reward coupon – one ice cream (Photo / Screenshot from Twitter user Takashi Matsuoka (ハイモジモジ))

Ice cream redeemed by a Japanese netizen (Photo / Screenshot from Twitter user Fumihiko Hayasaki)

Besides browsing furniture and decor, many people visit IKEA for the Swedish cuisine at its in-store restaurant, making dining spots extremely hard to come by. Customers often have to circle around for ages just to snag a table. Of course, IKEA Japan faces the same overwhelming crowds and has come up with a cool and sweet “reward strategy” — encouraging guests to voluntarily leave after 30 minutes. This has successfully increased table turnover, eased crowd issues, and gone viral on Twitter with rampant sharing.

Recently, a Japanese netizen shared a photo of an IKEA note on Twitter, which stated: “If you leave within 30 minutes from the time shown on your receipt at checkout and make room for other guests, you’ll get a free ice cream.” The post amazed many, who praised the idea as super smart. This reward-based, non-pushy approach encourages people to leave within 30 minutes, boosts turnover, and even includes a free ice cream — a win-win strategy for both customers and the store.

The IKEA branch in question is located in Tachikawa, Tokyo. It has successfully alleviated crowding in the restaurant and given customers the small joy of a free ice cream. Although costs have risen, the offer has actually attracted more visitors.