Home improvement retailer IKEA Canada has partnered with Cleo to deploy a smart charging management platform for its electric commercial fleets.  

The home furnishing retailer selected Cleo's smart charging management platform for six of its locations in Canada.  

The initiative is part of IKEA's endeavour to decarbonise its customer fulfilment operations and expand its network of charging stations across the country. 

As part of the turnkey contract, Cleo will oversee the selection, installation and deployment of charging infrastructure at the IKEA Beauharnois distribution centre.  

This includes 15 fast-charge stations and a power unit connected to a dedicated service entrance.  

The company has also commissioned four charging stations at IKEA Québec. 

This is Cleo's first venture outside Québec, with the platform set to be deployed across Ontario at IKEA stores in Burlington, Mississauga, North York and Vaughan, and in British Columbia at IKEA Richmond. 

Cleo's solution is designed to manage all charging activities, enhancing the reliability of the charging operation while minimising energy costs.  

Cleo CEO Jeff Desruisseaux said: “We’re particularly proud to support a key international player like IKEA in its efforts to reduce its environmental footprint in Canada.  

“IKEA supports its partners in their efforts to electrify their fleets, facilitating the decarbonisation of the transport of its goods. In addition to our shared values and commitment to a sustainable energy transition, this collaboration is symbolic in that it allows Cleo to expand its smart platform outside Québec and bring the expertise and talent of its team to Ontario and British Columbia.” 

IKEA's move to equip its stores and distribution centres with charging stations is a strategic step towards promoting the use of zero-emission delivery vehicles. 

The retailer aims to significantly minimise its greenhouse gas and for its partners by 2025. 

IKEA Canada fulfilment sourcing head Crystal Rasa stated: "By partnering with Cleo, we're taking an important step toward achieving our climate-positive sustainability goals. Cleo's expertise allows us to deploy innovative charging solutions, accelerate access to our partners in multiple locations across Canada and reduce the risks associated with such major infrastructure projects." 

In April 2024, IKEA Canada announced substantial price reductions on 800 products.