GS25 to Launch 'Chunsiki Kkobukchip Sweet Potato Tanghulu Flavor' Exclusively on the 6th

Rising Popularity of Staple Crop-Based Snacks and Texture-Driven Enjoyment
GS25’s Collaboration Strategy with Mega Food Brands

GS Retail announced on the 2nd that its convenience store chain, GS25, will exclusively launch the 'Chunsiki Kkobukchip Sweet Potato Tanghulu Flavor' snack in collaboration with Orion on the 6th.

Kkobukchip is a representative Orion brand that has enjoyed long-lasting popularity thanks to its unique four-layer crispy texture and diverse flavors. As Kkobukchip has expanded its presence as a global brand also gaining popularity in overseas markets, GS25 proposed the collaboration, judging that it possessed differentiated competitiveness appealing to both local and international customers.

Provided by GS Retail.

Reflecting the global trend toward staple crop-based snacks, sweet potato—a universally familiar ingredient—was selected as the main flavor. To align with the growing 'texture trend,' which values chewy and crunchy textures, the product replicates the crispy and sweet bite characteristic of tanghulu. Additionally, 'Chunsiki,' a Kakao Friends character known for loving sweet potatoes, is prominently featured on the packaging to further set the product apart.

GS25 has been introducing a range of differentiated products through collaboration with mega food brands. GS25 proposes new concepts in line with consumer trends based on its sales data and merchandising know-how, while food companies contribute research and development capabilities and brand power to complete the products.

There are two main types of collaborations. The first is the 'Flavor Extension' model, where new flavors are added to existing products. A key example is the 'Kkokkalcorn Mesmerizing Corn Flavor,' released exclusively on July 30 under a summer night market theme, which immediately became the top-selling snack, demonstrating strong customer interest and demand for these differentiated collaboration products.

The second strategy is the 'Spin-off,' which expands an existing brand into new categories. Examples include Orion's 'Miz Black Yogurt,' Seoul Milk dessert series, and Nongshim's Banana Kick dessert series. Notably, Miz Black Yogurt became the best-selling item in its category as a PB yogurt for the first time.

A GS Retail official stated, "By utilizing already proven mega brands, GS25 can drive spontaneous sharing on social media among customers, achieving both buzz and sales at the same time." The official added, "Food companies can also quickly validate new products using GS25's sales data and consumer feedback, while expanding their brand touchpoints."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.