Alcoholic beverages are displayed at CJ Olive Young outlet is seen in this photo provided by the health and beauty store chain.
SEOUL, June 5 (Korea Bizwire) — South Korea’s offline retail industry is actively pursuing a breakthrough as a lifestyle platform amidst the continuous expansion of online commerce.
Leading health and beauty (H&B) store operator CJ Olive Young recently introduced separate liquor sales counters at major outlets, including Gangnam and Euljiro in Seoul.
Initially, CJ Olive Young exclusively sold liquor through stores designated for employees in its headquarters building. Surprisingly, many general customers started seeking liquor at these stores.
As a result, the company expanded its liquor-selling outlets and currently offers approximately 100 stores where customers can find 15 different types of liquors, including wine and highballs.
In addition to cosmetics and health functional foods, the company also sells functional women’s underwear.
Convenience store chains have undergone a transformation, now offering a wide range of products.
Last month, CU collaborated with Pepper Savings Bank to launch an installment savings account with a 6 percent interest rate. Within 10 days of its release, nearly half of the allocated accounts were sold.
GS Retail Co., the operator of GS25 convenience stores, currently operates gold vending machines at 10 GS25 outlets and 19 GS The Fresh stores.
Since September of last year, GS Retail has sold approximately 2.4 billion won (US$1.83 million) worth of gold over a nine-month period.
Meahwhile, E-Mart 24 began selling karaoke machines and imported Mini Coopers in March.
Furthermore, convenience stores are expanding their offerings beyond traditional offline retail products by providing pet care services and exhibition tickets.
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)
