Furniture giant Ikea is recruiting real employees to work in its virtual store on the gaming platform Roblox. These virtual workers will earn the same wage as their counterparts in London, at £13.15/€14.80 per hour, equivalent to $14.31/$16.10 in the U.S., aligned with the Living Wage Foundation’s standards.
The initiative, called the “Co-Worker Game,” launches on June 24, allowing players to experience working in Ikea’s virtual environment. Employees will assist customers and can be promoted to different departments, including serving meatballs.
The roles are remote, but applicants must reside in London and be at least 18 years old. Ikea is accepting applications until Sunday, June 16, and will conduct virtual interviews from June 14 to June 18. New hires will be compensated for their time in the game.
“We’re thrilled to be the first brand to offer paid work on Roblox, showcasing our unique career paths,” said Darren Taylor, Country People and Culture Manager for Ikea UK and Ireland. “At Ikea, there is no set route to career progression. Our co-workers can change roles, switch departments, and grow in any direction they choose, both in the game and in the real world.”