GS25 Strengthens Winter Snack Lineup for 2024: Launches Hobbang and Bungeoppang Sales

GS25, a Korean company, has begun selling hobbang (steamed buns) and bungeoppang (fish-shaped cakes), quintessential winter snacks, in anticipation of the cold season. The new products include 'Tongdanpat Hobbang' (whole red bean hobbang), 'Kkulgoguma Hobbang' (honey sweet potato hobbang), and 'Bungeoppang' (fish-shaped cakes). They were launched on September 26th and 27th respectively, warmly welcoming customers as autumn transitions into early winter. GS25 explained that they started selling these winter snacks early to maximize demand during the peak season, considering the large temperature fluctuations characteristic of the season.

This year's GS25 hobbang lineup consists of various savory hobbang and those offering traditional flavors. The popularity of savory hobbang, such as Japchae, Jjamppong, and Tteokgalbi, which are substantial enough for a meal, is expected to continue. 'Danpat Hobbang' (red bean hobbang) and 'Shukrim Hobbang' (custard cream hobbang), which have gained popularity due to the recent 'Halmainial' (a portmanteau of 'halmeoni' (grandmother) and 'millennial') trend, are also expected to achieve high sales. Reflecting these trends, GS25 collaborated with Samlip to release 'Tongdanpat Hobbang' and 'Kkulgoguma Hobbang', featuring South Korean table tennis player Shin Yubin as the model. They plan to launch 'Shukrim Hobbang' and 'Jikwha Gogi Hobbang' (direct-fire meat hobbang) as Private Brand (PB) products in October.

Specifically, for individually steamed hobbang sold in steamers, GS25 will offer a 50% discount from 4 PM to midnight, the peak purchase time. For bundled products of 3-4 pieces, a buy-one-get-one-free (1+1) promotion will be offered on weekends with GS Pay. To increase customer satisfaction, they've incorporated a collaboration package with the French character 'Gaspard et Lisa,' targeting the 40s female demographic who most frequently purchase hobbang, often with children. This package includes stickers featuring illustrations of Gaspard and Lisa, conveying a warm message to customers.

Regarding bungeoppang, the number of stores selling them has increased from approximately 4,000 last year to approximately 5,000 this year, reflecting the surge in demand, so much so that the term 'Bungseokwon' (bungeoppang accessibility zone) has become popular. With the decrease in street vendors selling bungeoppang, GS25 has emerged as a major point of purchase. This year, they've enhanced the texture by adding glutinous rice to the bungeoppang batter and are running a 2+1 promotion (buy two, get one free) for red bean and custard cream bungeoppang, priced at 2400 won for 3 pieces, further enhancing customer satisfaction.

Jang Han-sol, manager of the GS Retail Counter FF team, stated, “Hobbang is a quintessential winter snack frequently sought after on days with large temperature fluctuations. This year, we are offering a wider variety of products through collaborations with new models, allowing consumers to enjoy a diverse range of flavors.” He added, “We have also decorated the products with 'Gaspard et Lisa' collaboration packaging to add an element of fun for customers when purchasing the product.”

These winter snacks are expected to be highly popular among consumers seeking warm and satisfying treats during the cold weather. GS25 plans to continue strengthening its seasonal snack lineup by reflecting the diverse needs of its customers.

Website: http://www.gsretail.com

※ This post is a cleaner, reorganized version based on the company's press release.