Convenience Stores, World Cup Boom... Sales Soar on Uruguay Match Day (Comprehensive)

CU, Beer Sales Up 194%
GS25, Increased Sales During After-Work Hours
7-Eleven, Balanced Growth Including 200% Increase in Beer
Sales Rise at Stores Near Gwanghwamun Square

Customers are purchasing products at the CU convenience store near Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul. (Photo by BGF Retail)

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Chun-han] Convenience store sales significantly increased on the day of South Korea's national soccer team's first World Cup match against Uruguay.

According to CU on the 25th, beer sales increased by 194.6% compared to the previous week. Sales of dried snacks rose by 123.1%, refrigerated snacks by 94.6%, and frozen instant meals by 116.7%. During the same period, GS25 also saw a sharp increase in sales of beer (186.4%), chicken (146.9%), snacks (125%), frozen convenience foods (113.7%), and snacks (98.2%). By time slot, sales accounted for 51.4% from 5 PM to midnight, the after-work hours, which is 6.3% higher than the previous week. At 7-Eleven, overall sales increased by 20%. Products with high sales growth rates included beer (200%), instant chicken (150%), snacks (100%), squid (130%), and beef jerky (100%).

At Emart24, beer sales increased by 145% compared to the previous year. Refrigerated and frozen snacks rose by 131%, dried snacks by 103%, and snacks by 80%. Sales growth rates by commercial district were highest in residential areas (37%), followed by office districts (25%) and entertainment districts (20%). By time slot, sales began to increase after 6 PM, peaking between 9 PM and 10 PM.

Stores near Gwanghwamun Square, where street cheering events were held, also saw significant sales increases. At CU, beer showed the highest growth rate at 1030%, followed by snacks at 680%, side dishes at 570%, and water at 490%. Due to the chilly weather, sales of hot packs increased by 1500%, and winter supplies by 1060%. At GS25, the store with the highest sales growth saw an increase of up to 97.3%. Popular items included beer (375.8%), side dishes (253.9%), snacks (178.5%), and soju (152.9%), all selling well. Hot packs (378.1%), portable chargers (461.7%), and portable tissues (211.6%) also showed high growth rates.

A convenience store industry official said, “We prepared various discount events so that customers watching soccer at home can enjoy it abundantly and deliciously,” adding, “Since South Korea’s matches in this tournament are held at 10 PM and midnight, the number of customers who want to enjoy dinner and late-night snacks while watching soccer is expected to continue increasing.”