With the relentless summer heat persisting, there has been a rapid surge in the number of people frequenting indoor shopping venues.

During the period from August 1 to 15, Hyundai Department Store observed a 13 per cent increase in sales across its 16 stores nationwide compared to the previous year.

The number of visitors also exhibited a noteworthy year-on-year growth rate of 14 per cent.

Of particular significance was the upswing in sales between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., coinciding with sunset, where sales escalated by 22.7 per cent year on year, and visitor numbers escalated by 26.1 per cent.

In contrast, visitor counts during the typically high-sales hours at department stores, spanning from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., saw a decline of 3 per cent.

Sales at the department store chain’s eateries and cafes also ascended by 18 per cent, driven by a 27 per cent upsurge in sales after 6 p.m.

The trend was attributed by the company to a shift in customer shopping behaviour, with more patrons opting to visit department stores in the evening to evade the heat.

Additionally, working individuals are now frequenting department stores on their way home from work, catering to their dinner needs as well.

Similarly, Lotte Department Store and Lotte Outlet saw a 5 per cent increase in their sales during the same period.

Particularly noteworthy is the visitor count at Lotte World Mall in southern Seoul, which soared by 20 per cent, surpassing 2.6 million compared to the previous year.

Lotte Department Store’s Jamsil outlet, located adjacent to Lotte World Mall, also enjoyed a 20 per cent growth in sales.

This story was originally published by Ashley Song, via Korea Bizwire.