Ikea has reported a full-year global sale-bounce of 7.1% - this was partially driven by expansion in China.

The company's revenues grew to €34.2bn during the 12 months to August, same-store sales grew by 4.8%.

"China remains one of the fastest growing markets for Ikea Group, together with Australia, Canada and Poland," the company said in a statement. It is currently preparing to launch in Serbia and the highly lucrative Indian market.

Ireland's love affair with the Sweedish flatpack-giant continues - its new Collection Point in Carrickmines, south-Dublin, is open from today. It will allow shoppers to collect online purchases delivered to the store.

"The Order & Collection Point has been designed to bring the Ikea home furnishing range and expertise closer to more customers by providing inspirational areas with ideas and solutions for the home in conjunction with expert co-workers who will share their home furnishing knowledge and advice," Ikea Ireland said, commenting on the new outlet.

Last year, Ikea's Irish operation generated record sales and profits as 2.6 million visits were made to its Ballymun store.

Ikea Ireland Market Manager, Marsha Smith said: "We’re delighted to open the doors to this new version of Ikea and welcome our first customers. This is a completely new shopping concept for Ikea in Ireland and I’m sure that new and existing customers will really benefit from the increased convenience that the Order and Collection Point offers.

"In particular, the new format really allows customers the time, support and assistance to plan bigger purchases such as their dream kitchen or bedroom. We’ve had a lot of positive feedback over the last number of months so we expect the first few weeks will be busy," she said.