Ingvar Kamprad founded IKEA in 1943 in Sweden. IKEA pioneered flat-pack furniture that was affordable and easy for customers to assemble themselves. The company has experienced tremendous growth, expanding to over 300 stores in 47 countries. IKEA's unique culture emphasizes frugality, independence among employees, and participative leadership. The company's success is largely due to the vision and leadership of its founder, Ingvar Kamprad.