Korean c-store swaps old for new
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A convenience store chain in Korea plans to offer affordable smartphone battery replacements instead of time-consuming charging services.
BGF Retail, the company behind the CU convenience store chain, announced on April 14 that it would begin the battery replacement service in May. The service offers fully charged smartphone batteries to smartphone users in exchange for their discharged ones, after verifying their authenticity.
Korean c-stores including CU currently offer battery-charging services, which can take up to 40 minutes. By introducing the replacement service, customers can save time while paying the same 3000 won (US$2.74) fee.
The service will be available for all battery-replaceable smartphone models, and CU will continually add batteries for new models.
However, the service is not available at all CU convenience stores, only shops that have chosen to participate in the program. CU stores offering the service can be found using the new “Full-charge” smartphone application.
CU explained that the service was devised to solve the issue of rapidly depleted smartphone batteries, leveraging the accessibility of convenience stores.
An official at BGF Retail said that as more people use smartphones, there is much anxiety about battery life. “By offering the service, we are presenting a convenient option to customers as they can replace the worn-out smartphone batteries like they are purchasing drinks in our stores.”
Meanwhile, CU convenience stores are now transforming from simple stores selling items such as snacks, drinks and other daily necessities to “space” providers with lockers, meeting rooms and even concert halls.
CU’s Itaewon Freedom offers a private locker service that was launched in December of last year, and some stores in university areas have started to offer meeting rooms equipped with tables, whiteboards, and HD TVs for those who seek spaces suitable for small-sized meetings.
In Daehangno, where many performers and audiences gather together, the CU Marronnier Park store is equipped with a small-sized stage for amateur musicians, and even supplies sound and lighting equipment. It was developed to offer customers the pleasure of enjoying cultural performances highlighting the regional characteristics of the area.
Questions & Answers
Q.What is the primary benefit of the new battery replacement service for customers?
What is the primary benefit of the new battery replacement service for customers?
Customers can save time by exchanging their discharged battery for a fully charged one instantly. The previous charging service could take up to 40 minutes, whereas this new option is much quicker.
Q.How much does it cost to use the smartphone battery replacement service?
How much does it cost to use the smartphone battery replacement service?
The service costs 3000 won, which is approximately US$2.74. This fee is the same as what customers previously paid for the time-consuming battery charging service.
Q.Are all CU convenience stores offering the new battery replacement service?
Are all CU convenience stores offering the new battery replacement service?
No, the service is not available at all CU stores. It is only offered at shops that have chosen to participate in the programme, and customers can find these stores using a new app.
Q.What other new services are some CU convenience stores providing to customers?
What other new services are some CU convenience stores providing to customers?
Some CU stores are transforming into 'space' providers, offering services like private lockers, meeting rooms with equipment, and even small stages with sound and lighting for cultural performances.
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