So, what makes Ikea dates so appealing? During a cost of living crisis that’s seen a record fall in disposable income, it’s understandable that the prospect of an evening browsing fantasy sofas and eating budget meatballs feels infinitely more doable than an expensive meal out or a round of £8 pints at the pub.

According to psychologist Michaela Thomas, author of The Lasting Connection, there are more factors at play. “Take (500) Days Of Summer,” she says. “The central couple are very quirky, they’re very cute, and Ikea is romantic; it’s a bit of role-playing. There’s lots of things to see and do, and it can be fun to curiously explore things together: hopping on the sofas and making out in the made-up beds.”

At the same time, Thomas adds, Ikea dates offer us a safe space to communicate. “It gives us an opportunity to casually explore preferences without having to sit down and have tough conversations,” she says. “Can you agree on which sofa you’d theoretically pick without it turning into a major conflict? Can you respect the other person’s preference?”

What’s behind the cult of Ikea dates?