That brings up an idea I've had before -- Ikea would be smart to expand their product line to garage storage and toolboxes. Imagine something like this cart, but with thicker steel and sturdier construction. The advantage they would have over a place like Harbor Freight is that their design tends to be better and they've got global distribution already in place.
There was a time when they didn't do kitchens, I'm sure. But they found a market there. Maybe one day they'll do the same for garages. If nothing else, it would free them up from the running joke about the only tool being an allen wrench.
Don't they already have a line of rougher-finished shelving and the like for garages/basements/etc? Would there be a global market for toolboxes? How many auto/DIYers are there in Europe? My impression is not many, but I really don't know. It's an interesting idea, but I think there are already low-cost, low-quality tool storage options out there.
My kitchen cabinets, dining room set, and living room are all Ikea. No, it won't last forever, but it gives us nice-looking stuff at reasonable prices. And replacing something isn't too painful if the kids trash it. Those aren't necessarily the qualities I look for when outfitting the garage/basement/shop areas.
Come to think of it, I'm going to take a look at that cart next time I'm in an Ikea. I can think of some light-duty uses for something like that.
