[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Seung-jin] Amid the new coronavirus infection (COVID-19) crisis causing the duty-free industry’s sales to hit rock bottom for several months, Shilla Duty Free is implementing paid leave for its employees.
According to the duty-free industry on the 1st, Shilla Duty Free plans to offer paid leave starting mid-June, paying 70% of the salary to employees who wish to take it.
This decision comes as foreign tourists have virtually stopped arriving for several months due to COVID-19, resulting in sales dropping by more than 90% compared to the previous year, and with the prolonged situation making recovery timing uncertain.
Additionally, Shilla Duty Free Jeju branch has closed for one month starting today. The reopening schedule will be decided based on future developments. Previously, Shilla Duty Free Jeju International Airport branch had been closed since April.
Lotte Duty Free Jeju branch also closed starting today. Although it had been operating with reduced hours since February, it faced difficulties as May sales plummeted about 95% compared to the previous year. As global air routes were blocked and customer numbers sharply declined, Lotte Duty Free had also suspended operations at Gimpo Airport and Gimhae Airport branches.
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