When I was living in Slovakia, which I do not call Socialist, I did a lot of my household shopping at IKEA.
I thought it was great, and much of what I bought I shipped to the Philippines, where I now live.
My computer desk and chair, along with other book cases, and household goods were easily shipped in two large boxes.
Everything could be broken down into small parts for easy packing.
Much of my kitchen goods, lamps, and other household items are from that same Ikea.
I have no complaints.
About half of my furniture are from IKEA as well.