Combined estimated payments at Korea's top four convenience store chains exceeded 12 trillion won in the first four months of this year, marking an all-time high.
According to credit and debit card payment data compiled by WiseApp·Retail on Tuesday, the combined estimated payments at GS25, CU, Seven-Eleven, and emart24 totaled 12.56 trillion won between January and April this year. This is the largest figure since the survey began. The amount represents a 25.9% increase from 9.98 trillion won during the same January-April period in 2022, four years ago. Year-on-year figures for the January-April period also showed steady growth, reaching 11.39 trillion won in 2023, 12.04 trillion won in 2024, and 12.18 trillion won in 2025.
By brand, GS25 recorded the highest estimated payments, followed by CU, Seven-Eleven, and emart24. GS25 and CU also ranked first and second, respectively, in terms of payment frequency. The survey is based on estimates derived from card payment data. Bank transfers, cash, and gift certificate payments are not included, so the figures may differ from actual sales.
The growth is attributed to convenience stores establishing themselves as lifestyle-oriented consumption channels, absorbing demand not only from restaurants but also from large supermarkets and grocery stores. Analysts say convenience store usage is rising in particular as prolonged high inflation and the increase in single- and two-person households have spread "small-volume grocery shopping," in which consumers buy only what they need. Convenience stores have also driven sales growth by expanding specialized outlets that strengthen their lineup of fresh foods, including fruits, vegetables, and meat, in line with this consumption trend.
"As the consumption pattern of buying only what is needed at nearby locations has taken root, convenience stores have firmly established themselves as channels that handle everything from meals to grocery shopping," an industry official said. "Starting in May, after the survey period, the use of high fuel price relief payments will be added, further accelerating sales growth at convenience stores."
