Opening of Hangang Renaissance Yeouido Branch No. 3
Signature Store with "Running Station" Concept
Equipped with Facilities and Products for Runners
Building a Running Network Across 19 Stores Near Hangang Park
On March 3, BGF Retail announced that its convenience store chain CU will be opening the industry’s first “Running Station” concept signature store near the Hangang River in Yeouido, Seoul, in response to the recent running trend. The new branch will be known as “CU Hangang Renaissance Yeouido Branch No. 3.”
CU Learning Station Signature Store No.1, 'CU Hangang Renaissance Yeouido Store No.3.' Provided by BGF Retail
CU Hangang Renaissance Yeouido Branch No. 3 was inspired by “urban runners” and features a street-style interior, with concrete gray as the main color and CU’s brand identity colors-purple and green-used as vibrant highlights to create an energetic running vibe. Design elements representing starting and finishing lines are placed throughout the space, further enhancing the dynamic atmosphere.
The first floor is a functional area designed to help runners prepare and recover, serving as an all-in-one zone that brings together running-related products. Unmanned lockers are available for storing personal items before and after running, while running merchandise is organized in a dedicated curation zone. Essential nutrition such as energy gels and vitamins is grouped under “Boost Up,” protective gear like knee supports and taping is found in “Safe Run,” and disposable towels and sunscreen are available in the “Quick Care” section. This detailed categorization allows customers to find everything they need for running in one place. In addition, high-demand F&B (food and beverage) products for runners-such as drinks, protein bars, and protein shakes-are zoned separately for quick and efficient shopping before and after a run.
The second floor is designed as a running culture space, combining relaxation, experience, and community functions. Facilities include changing rooms, a rest zone, and a powder room for post-run refreshment. There is also a photo zone with a finish line concept and mirrors for runners to take “Ounwan” (Today’s Workout Completed) certification shots, as well as a tattoo kiosk where visitors can print their preferred running-inspired designs directly onto their skin.
There are also experience and collaboration zones operated in partnership with sports brands. An outdoor performance wearable brand, “Hypershell,” is featured in a pop-up zone where runners can try on products and participate in an hourly rental program. Hypershell is a wearable robotics device powered by artificial intelligence (AI) that assists the wearer by amplifying and controlling power in sync with their movements as needed.
Starting with this location, CU plans to sequentially expand the Running Station concept to 18 stores near Hangang Park, including Magok, Mangwon, Yeouido, Banpo, Jamsil, and Ttukseom. The company also aims to connect its own commerce app, Pocket CU, with a running platform to develop the “CU Hangang Running Course,” and will operate running record challenges and a rewards program.
Lee Eungwan, Head of Customer Experience at BGF Retail, stated, “Running has established itself as both a culture and a lifestyle, so we have launched a specialized store that reflects the actual routes and needs of runners. Through CU Running Station, we aim to present a new model in which convenience stores evolve from everyday shopping spaces into lifestyle platforms that connect sports and culture.”
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