Drop the Allen Wrenches, IKEA Rolls Out TaskRabbit Assembly Nationwide
No more trying to interpret the hieroglyphic instructions: IKEA is expanding TaskRabbit assembly to additional stores and flat fee pricing for furniture and other items.
The Swedish retailer announced that it acquired the gig economy platform back in September, and started an in-store pilot program in a handful of California stores in January. This week, IKEA said the response to the pilot was very positive; Chief operating officer Jackie DeChamps said that both customers and employees have been excited about the program and its flexibility, according to CNBC.
In-store TaskRabbit booking is now available at six IKEA locations (Brooklyn, Emeryville, East Palo Alto, Long Island, Paramus, Elizabeth), with more US stores planned in 2018. The retailer has also begun touting the service on its website, which can be used in any city that TaskRabbit currently serves.
TaskRabbit offers flat rate fees for IKEA products based on the item, starting at $36, and service can be booked as soon as next day. IKEA still has their independent assembly partners as well, but that starts at $89 and is based on the cost of the item(s). TaskRabbit will also continue to do non-IKEA related tasks.
CNBC noted that Taskers can opt out of the IKEA program if they choose, since the fixed rates are lower than what they’d normally charge based on the time it takes to complete the job. Though, TaskRabbit CEO Stacy Brown-Philpot told CNBC that many Taskers are earning more overall due to the volume of work the IKEA brand recognition brings and are pleased with the results.
In store TaskRabbits are expected to expand to locations in LA, Miami, Houston, Boston, Washington D.C., and more this year.