When it comes to walking round large retail spaces, I have to admit I don’t really like mixing with the masses, sorry if that sound pretensions, that’s definitely not my intention – it’s just that I know how retailer is try to influence me and it’s usually all too predictable.

Going to IQEA, which I admit it has been a number of years since I last went, has reminded me of a few basic business truths.

Great retail formulas work forever.

The way they draw the visitor around their store ‘on a journey, room by room’ is genius.

It is similar to the legendary Stew Leonard food stores in Connecticut, USA (all retailers should go there if they are really serious about their business). But, despite the brilliance of their store design, their restaurant really hit home to me.

They make a virtue out of compromising their offer by demonstrating their determination not to waste ‘our’ money.

Wow, less is more?

Yes in this case – simply designed, their logical layout for their restaurant disguises the financial triumph this business is.

Keep it clean, efficient and good value. £18 ($30) for a family of 5 for lunch! The food is nutritionally balanced, healthy drinks are available and it was really easy to understand. And mercifully quick to do.

Lesson in lunch – you bet! Focus on what I really want as a customer and I am yours.

PS – even taking my tray to the tray stack don’t feel a chore, I’ve got to try this at home on my children. Some hope!

Rob Ward