IKEA Ventures into Roblox with Paid Virtual Jobs

In a groundbreaking move, IKEA is offering 10 paid positions for real-life staff to work in its virtual store on the gaming platform Roblox. Dubbed “The Co-Worker Game,” this initiative marks IKEA’s first foray into mainstream gaming, allowing people to immerse themselves in the working world of the iconic furniture retailer.

Successful applicants, aged 18 and over and residing in the UK or Ireland, will work remotely in different sections of the online store. Their responsibilities include assisting customers with furniture selection, organizing virtual spaces using IKEA products, and even serving digital meatballs.

The fully remote positions pay £13.15 ($16.82) per hour, equivalent to a typical IKEA employee’s wage in London and higher than the US federal minimum wage. Employees will work alongside unpaid Roblox players, who can also serve customers, explore showrooms, and earn promotions.

IKEA’s unusual job listing has gone viral on social media, with users expressing their opinions through memes and videos. While it is still unclear whether virtual customers can purchase actual IKEA products through the game, this innovative move positions IKEA as a pioneer in the world of technology.

As the gaming industry continues to evolve, IKEA’s venture into Roblox showcases the potential for brands to engage with consumers in immersive and creative ways, blurring the lines between virtual and physical experiences.

About Peter Jefferson

Peter Jefferson is a full-time researcher for www.businessdistrict.com, a task he took on in 2011 when the site was launched. He brings to the position a wealth of practical experience in the field of fiscal policy, having consulted with various government bodies on revenue collection, expenditure and economic growth. Contact Peter at peter[at]businessdistrict.com