Ikea Acquires TaskRabbit, a Web Platform for Ordering Home Repairs and Small Services

The Swedish furniture retail chain Ikea has reported a reached agreement to acquire the innovative company TaskRabbit, whose online platform enables the ordering of a wide range of home repairs and services.

TaskRabbit has developed an online platform that offers a wide array of home repairs and small household and other services, from plumbing work, furniture assembly, grocery pickup from stores, and waiting in line in front of stores.

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Since its founding nine years ago, this startup company based in San Francisco has expanded its operations to 40 cities across the United States and London, according to TaskRabbit data.

“Through our unique online platform, TaskRabbit makes life better for consumers and service providers,” said CEO Stacey Brown-Philpot.

At TaskRabbit, they expect that connecting with the IKEA group will result in an expanded range of offered services and greater opportunities for increased earnings for those who perform them.

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The financial details of the agreement have not been disclosed. TaskRabbit will reportedly continue to operate as an independent company based in the Netherlands.

Last year, Ikea successfully tested ordering assembly services for new furniture through TaskRabbit’s online platform.

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“In a rapidly changing retail environment, we continuously strive to develop new and improved products and services to make our customers’ lives a little easier. Entering the online sharing economy allows us to support that,” said CEO Jesper Brodin in a joint statement.

Ikea will provide access to services through TaskRabbit after the acquisition is completed.