Easing Social Distancing and Cherry Blossom Boom... Convenience Store Sales 'Blooming'

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeon Jinyoung] As social distancing measures have been eased, leading to an increase in gatherings and flower viewing, convenience store sales in entertainment districts and recreational area commercial zones have significantly increased. Hangover remedies, beverages, and cup ice have emerged as key products driving sales.

According to the industry on the 17th, from April 4 to 10, when the limit on the number of people allowed in multi-use facilities was relaxed from 8 to 10 and operating hours extended from 11 PM to midnight, BGF Retail's (CU) sales growth rate compared to the previous week for major products in recreational area commercial zones recorded 222.1% for iced drinks, 143.2% for ice cream, and 210.1% for ice. Recreational area commercial zones refer to places with parks such as Hangang Park, Children's Grand Park, and Songpa Seokchon Lake. The number of people drinking outdoors also increased, with beer sales jumping 51.3%. Sales in entertainment districts with many bars, such as Gangnam and Sinsa, also rose. Hangover remedy sales increased by 30.0%, ice cream by 38.4%, and iced drinks by 56.6%.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Other major convenience stores showed similar growth trends. GS Retail, which operates GS25, saw instant cooked chicken sales increase by 799%, cup ice by 372%, beer by 150%, side dishes by 223%, and frozen desserts by 204% at about 100 convenience stores around the Hangang area during the same period. In entertainment districts with about 100 stores in Gangnam, Hongdae, and Konkuk University areas, hangover remedy beverage sales rose by 61.4%, frozen desserts by 91.9%, and iced drinks by 74.8%.

Seven Eleven also saw hangover remedy sales increase by 20%, alcoholic beverages by over 10%, and major product sales in entertainment districts rise by 50%.

Emart24 experienced a 111% increase in sales of tube and pouch-type ice cream, and cup ice and pouch beverages grew by 54%. In entertainment districts, hangover remedy sales rose by 24%, and cup ice sales increased by 33%.

An industry official analyzed, "With warm weather ideal for outings and growing expectations for With Corona, the increase in foot traffic has led to a noticeable rise in sales, especially centered on beverages."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.