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Convenience Stores Get Upgraded
작성자  : 관리자
Convenience stores are a common sight throughout Korea. What’s more, these stores continue to evolve, providing various new services for their steady stream of customers.

Here are some noteworthy services that are being added to certain convenience stores. Perhaps in the near future, you might find them at a store near you.

Delivery Robots and Drones

In September, 7-Eleven began testing out delivery robots in a neighborhood in Seoul. The four-wheeled autonomous vehicles are making deliveries while maneuvering around pedestrians and automobiles.

At the same time, the convenience store chain is trying out drone deliveries near an arboretum in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi Province. The service is available to visitors who are within a 1-kilometer vicinity of the store. They can order snacks and drinks and have the items flown to them within three minutes.

Gold Vending Machines

GS25 recently installed vending machines that offer a very precious commodity. Customers can use them to purchase bars of gold of up to 73 grams in weight. Currently, the vending machines are available in two stores in Seoul, with plans to expand the number in 2023.

Other convenience stores have previously sold gold during special promotional events. However, this is the first time that customers can receive their gold bars directly after their purchase.

Electric Scooters and Bikes

Emart24 has teamed up with an electric scooter company. Riders can drop by a store to return their scooters or have them recharged on the spot.

Meanwhile, 7-Eleven is working with an electric bike firm to serve as its charging station. When an e-bike’s battery runs out, the rider can stop by a store to replace the battery with a fully charged one.