As COVID-19 and pollen overlap... Increase in 'small cleaning' wet wipes, mops, and cleaning cloths

Homeplus PB Hygiene Products Sales Increase by 13%

[Asia Economy Reporter Cha Min-young] With the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), the relative concept of ‘small cleaning,’ which involves cleaning little by little more frequently instead of large-scale cleaning, has increased, leading to a rise in demand for cleaning·and hygiene products.

According to Homeplus on the 19th, the average monthly sales of hygiene products from February to April, when COVID-19 spread domestically, increased by an average of 5% compared to January. In particular, Homeplus’s premium private brand (PB) ‘Signature’ hygiene products, known for their cost-effectiveness (performance relative to price), grew by more than 13%.

The product driving this growth is wet wipes. The ‘Signature Wet Wipes’ and ‘Signature Baby Wet Wipes,’ made with thick and durable fabric and water purified through seven stages, sold a total of approximately 8.5 million units as of the 18th. The wider selection, including the original product and baby wet wipes suitable for babies or sensitive skin, is also a factor in their popularity.

Cleaning cloths that solve concerns about dust and stubborn grime are also popular. The ‘Signature Antibacterial Wet Mop Cleaning Cloth’ features a thick embossed structure that enhances floor adhesion and holds a large amount of moisture, allowing a wide area to be cleaned with one sheet. Additionally, it has passed the KTR antibacterial test and contains no five harmful substances, making it safe to use. The ‘Signature Electrostatic Cleaning Cloth,’ made with electrostatic induction fabric, is the top product among all cleaning cloths and is ideal for cleaning pollen or yellow dust.

Interest in dishware and kitchen hygiene has also increased, leading to higher sales of related products. Among them, the ‘Signature Disposable Scrubber,’ which is used one sheet at a time, sold more than 60,000 units within three months of its launch. The ‘Signature Air Fryer Paper Foil,’ made to fit the size of an air fryer basket, has seen increased demand as the culture of cooking conveniently at home has spread since COVID-19.

Meanwhile, Homeplus is offering Signature cleaning and hygiene products together at affordable prices on its online mall. Until the 27th, customers purchasing two or more of the Signature Antibacterial Wet Mop Cleaning Cloth or Signature Electrostatic Cleaning Cloth on the online mall will receive a 30% discount. Additional benefits include a buy-one-get-one-free offer on Signature 3-ply beauty tissues and Signature Soft Toilet Paper, which is made thicker with premium 3-ply natural pulp.

Song Cheol-min, a buyer for Homeplus’s daily necessities team, said, “As many customers’ hygiene management methods are changing, the demand for products that are affordable and can enhance effectiveness will continue to grow.” He added, “Homeplus will continue to offer a variety of cost-effective hygiene products.”