Industry Vice Minister Encourages Shopping Malls and Companies Participating in Donghaeng Sale Including 11st

"Strict Prevention Management for 'Everyday Social Distancing' in Logistics Centers, Call Centers, and More" Urged

Jung Seung-il, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy. / Photo by Moon Ho-nam munonam@

[Asia Economy Reporter Moon Chaeseok] Jeong Seung-il, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, encouraged online shopping malls participating in the 'Korea Together Sale,' such as 11st, after reviewing their sales status on the 8th.

11st has been holding a discount event of up to 30% on about 500 products by category, including processed and fresh foods, fashion and beauty, living and kitchen, digital and leisure, from the 16th of last month to the 12th.

On this day, Vice Minister Jeong reviewed the sales status of online shopping malls participating in the Together Sale, including 11st.

Although domestic consumption has been declining recently due to the impact of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), online shopping has established itself as an alternative in retail distribution as non-face-to-face consumption expands.

In May, major offline retailers' sales decreased by 6.1% compared to the same period last year, while online sales increased by 13.5%. The domestic retail distribution share of online shopping grew from 20.8% in 2018 and 23.9% last year to 29% as of May.

Vice Minister Jeong met with representatives of 11st and tenant companies to discuss industry development plans, including sharing difficulties faced by the industry and success stories of tenant companies.

He said, "I hope the industry continues to take interest and participate so that the Together Sale can proceed successfully," and urged, "Please ensure thorough quarantine management such as 'social distancing in daily life' at key facilities including logistics centers and call centers."