Convenience store chain CU announced on the 3rd that it will open the industry's first signature convenience store with a 'Running Station' concept (CU Hangang Renaissance Yeouido No. 3) near the Han River in Yeouido, Seoul.
The store combines amenities for runners, specialized products, rest areas, and community functions to create a one-stop space covering the entire running experience. The first floor serves as a function-focused space to help runners prepare and recover, featuring an all-in-one zone with running-related products.
CU has installed unmanned storage lockers where runners can store their belongings before and after runs. Running products are displayed in a dedicated curation zone with subcategories including 'Boost Up' for essential nutrition such as energy gels and vitamins, 'Safe Run' for protective gear like knee braces and taping supplies, and 'Quick Care' for disposable towels and sunscreen.
Food and beverage items in high demand among runners, including drinks, protein bars, and protein shakes, are separately organized to enable quick and efficient shopping before and after runs.
The second floor is designed as a running culture space combining rest, experience, and community functions. It features changing rooms, a rest zone and powder room for post-run refreshing. A photo zone with a finish line concept and mirror setup allows visitors to take photos freely, while a tattoo kiosk enables runners to print desired running certification designs onto their skin.
The store also features a pop-up zone for outdoor performance wearable brand 'Hypershell,' where runners can try on and rent products by the hour. Participation in programs linked with running platform 'Runday' is also available.
Starting with this location, CU plans to sequentially expand 18 stores near Han River parks—including Magok, Mangwon, Yeouido, Banpo, Jamsil, and Ttukseom—into Running Stations, building a running hub network centered on the Han River belt. The company also plans to develop 'CU Han River Running Courses' by linking its commerce app Pocket CU with running platforms, and will operate running record challenges and reward programs.
"As running has established itself as a culture and lifestyle, we have launched a specialized store reflecting runners' actual routes and needs," said Lee Eun-kwan, Head of CX Division at BGF Retail. "Through CU Running Station, we will present a new model where convenience stores evolve beyond everyday consumption spaces into lifestyle platforms connecting sports and culture."