The announcement comes after then-Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott blocked plans for IKEA to open a store in Stockport in February 2007
The retail giant will set up a new site in Stockport along with other new stores in Aintree and Preston in the coming weeks. The 'Plan and Order Point' is expected to employ six people.
Speaking to the Manchester Evening News , deputy country retail manager Marsha Smith said other locations are also being considered across the North West. Mr Prescott rejected the plans because IKEA had not demonstrated there were not other more suitable sites available. He said a lack of public transport links would increase traffic congestion and that IKEA would harm other similar stores in the area.
Although the exact locations of the three new north west locations are still being kept under wraps, IKEA has confirmed they will be located in retail parks and shopping centres. They are expected to showcase around five kitchen and wardrobe solutions as well as having a consultation area.