Key Takeaways
- IKEA’s Auckland store has incorrect Māori language signs, including the use of non-Māori letters such as "F" and "S"
- The company has acknowledged the mistake and is working with Māori partners to correct the signs
- IKEA has expressed its commitment to cultural sensitivity and authenticity in its communications
- The error was pointed out on social media, with some users praising the company’s effort to use te reo Māori, while others criticized the lack of accuracy
- IKEA has engaged professional Māori cultural advisors to develop cultural competency within its teams and strengthen its understanding of the Māori world view
Introduction to the Issue
The IKEA store in Auckland’s Sylvia Park has come under scrutiny for its incorrect use of the Māori language on its signs. The signs, which point to the Swedish restaurant and café, read "wharekai & kāfe swīni", but contain letters that are not part of the Māori alphabet, such as "F" and "S". This mistake was pointed out on social media, where users debated the accuracy of the translation. While some praised IKEA’s effort to use te reo Māori, others criticized the company for not ensuring the accuracy of the translation.
Social Media Reaction
The photo of the sign was posted to Reddit, sparking a lively debate among users. Some commenters pointed out that the translation was incorrect, with one user suggesting that a more accurate translation would be "Wharekai Huitene". Others took a more forgiving view, acknowledging that while the translation was incorrect, it was still a good effort. However, some users were less charitable, pointing out that if they were to use a foreign language on signage in their own business, they would make sure to have it checked by a native speaker. This criticism highlights the importance of cultural sensitivity and accuracy when using indigenous languages in commercial settings.
IKEA’s Response
In response to the criticism, an IKEA spokesperson acknowledged that the company had already been made aware of the inaccuracy and was taking steps to correct it. The spokesperson stated that IKEA was "currently consulting with our trusted Māori partners on all existing in-store signage to make any corrections to te reo Māori needed". This response demonstrates IKEA’s commitment to cultural sensitivity and authenticity in its communications. The company has also emphasized its engagement with professional Māori cultural advisors to develop cultural competency within its teams and strengthen its understanding of the Māori world view.
Commitment to Cultural Sensitivity
IKEA’s commitment to cultural sensitivity is evident in its statement that it is "fully committed to using te reo Māori appropriately and respectfully, and we take all feedback very seriously". This commitment is important, as the use of indigenous languages in commercial settings can be a sensitive issue. Companies must be mindful of the cultural significance of these languages and ensure that they are used accurately and respectfully. IKEA’s willingness to listen to feedback and make corrections demonstrates its dedication to getting it right and building trust with the Māori community.
Conclusion and Future Steps
In conclusion, the error in IKEA’s Māori language signs highlights the importance of cultural sensitivity and accuracy in commercial settings. While the company’s effort to use te reo Māori was appreciated by some, the mistake has sparked a necessary conversation about the importance of getting it right. IKEA’s commitment to correcting the signs and engaging with Māori cultural advisors demonstrates its dedication to cultural sensitivity and authenticity. As the company moves forward, it is likely that it will take a more nuanced approach to using indigenous languages in its communications, one that prioritizes accuracy, respect, and cultural sensitivity. By doing so, IKEA can build trust with the Māori community and demonstrate its commitment to being a responsible and culturally aware business.