South Korea’s convenience store chains reported double-digit sales growth in the first week following the rollout of government-issued consumption coupons, with customers increasingly turning to nearby stores for everyday shopping.

According to industry data released Tuesday, the four major operators – CU, GS25, 7-Eleven, and Emart24 – saw weekly sales from July 22 to 28 rise more than 10 per cent compared to the same period in June. The spike in sales was largely driven by middle-aged consumers and families using the coupons for bulk purchases, particularly in the ₩20,000–₩30,000 range.

Unlike department stores and hypermarkets, which were excluded from direct coupon eligibility due to their corporate-owned structure, convenience stores – largely franchise-based – were accessible redemption points. This translated into a noticeable rise in basket sizes, with customers spending well above the pre-coupon average of around ₩7000 per visit.

Emart24 reported sales increased by over 10 per cent, while GS25 noted a similar rise in average transaction size. Customers increasingly utilised shopping baskets and purchased more fresh food, daily necessities, and even rice and meat – items not traditionally associated with convenience stores.

Alcohol sales, particularly beer and soju, surged. Compared to the previous month, beer sales rose 31.7 per cent at GS25, 30.0 per cent at 7-Eleven, 29.2 per cent at CU, and 20.0 per cent at Emart24. Soju sales increased 16.2 per cent at GS25 and 12.4 per cent at CU. Overall liquor sales were up more than 10 per cent.

Sales of cigarettes – also eligible for coupon use – rose as well, with more customers purchasing full cartons instead of single packs. However, concerns have emerged over potential “stockpiling” and illicit resale for cash, prompting operators to withhold exact figures due to the item’s sensitivity.

The coupon-driven spending also lifted demand for health supplements and meal replacements – categories convenience stores have been expanding as part of long-term growth strategies.

Retail analysts say the trend underscores a significant shift in consumer behaviour. “With the rise of single- and two-person households, more people were already grocery shopping at convenience stores,” said one industry official. “Now, with government coupons accelerating the shift, large retailers are increasingly worried about losing customers not just temporarily, but for good.”

• This story was originally published on The Korea Bizwire.