Latest news with #SquidGame-inspired
Korea Herald
07-03-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
K-convenience chains gain momentum overseas with private labels
CU, GS25 divesifiy exclusive snack and dessert lines to meet global appetite for K-food South Korea's convenience store chains, led by industry frontrunners CU and GS25, are making bigger waves globally, riding the K-food boom with their exclusive products. GS25, the country's largest convenience store brand by sales, is solidifying its presence in overseas markets with its YouUs private-label products and exclusive offerings at the forefront. Strategic partnerships — most notably a collaboration with Netflix to create Squid Game-inspired snacks — have also played a key role in driving this momentum. 'Korean convenience stores, with savvy marketing strategies, have become hubs for showcasing the latest Korean food trends abroad,' said an industry official, explaining the expansion momentum behind the convenience chains. Reaching 30 countries across Asia, Africa, North America, the Middle East and Europe, GS25's operator GS Retail saw its export revenue soar to $9 million last year, up from $3.4 million in 2020. Beyond its expanding export volume, GS25 has been cementing a strong physical presence abroad, operating 355 stores in Vietnam and 270 in Mongolia as of January. 'We plan to broaden our product lineup with K-desserts while expanding into new markets through retail partnerships, including those for Halal food products,' said a GS Retail official. GS25's archrival CU is also bearing fruits from its overseas push. Export volume of BGF Retail, the operator of CU, shot up to $8 million last year, up 23 percent from $6.5 million in 2021. Driving its export growth is a diverse lineup of food products under CU's private brand, Heyroo, which reaches over 20 countries, including the US, China, the UK and the Netherlands. It also boasts exclusive products like the popular Yonsei Milk Cream Bread, a standout favorite among CU offerings. Last year, CU became the first Korean convenience store chain to secure a dedicated display for 15 of its private-label products at Japan's largest discount retailer, Don Quijote. For CU, Mongolia leads the way with 460 stores, followed by Malaysia with 150 and Kazakhstan with 30, as of February. According to a CU official, its proprietary products account for approximately 50 percent of total sales at its international locations. 'CU-exclusive products like Yonsei Milk Cream Bread are flying off the shelves in Mongolia, while in Malaysia, Korean-style fried chicken and tteokbokki rank among the top-selling products,' the official said. The global scope of convenience store chains is extending even further, with growth plans gaining momentum in the years ahead. CU targets 500 outposts in Mongolia by this year, another 500 in Malaysia by 2028 and 500 more in Kazakhstan by 2029. Meanwhile, GS25 is picking up speed, setting its sights on hitting 1,500 international locations by 2027. Korean food exports have been on a steady upward trajectory over the past decade. According to the Korea Trade Statistics Promotion Institute, K-food exports surged from $3.51 billion in 2015 to $7.02 billion in 2024, with an annual growth rate of 8 percent.
Khaleej Times
30-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Top things to do in the UAE from January 31 to February 2
The weekend is here, so is our guide to the best offers and activities around the country. Here's the list: Squid Games-inspired competition Al Ghurair Centre is set to host an immersive Squid Game-inspired competition on February 1 from 6pm to 8pm, transforming its grand atrium into a high-stakes battlefield. Participants will take on iconic challenges like 'Red Light, Green Light' in a safe, family-friendly setting, with a chance to win up to Dh5,000. While online registration is closed, last-minute participants can register on-site by 5.30pm. Think you have what it takes? Join the game and test your skills. Lunch in the tallest building Starting February 1, head to Burj Khalifa on the 122nd floor where you will find a sophisticated business lunch for Dubai's professionals and food enthusiasts. The three-course menu (Dh325 per person) features gourmet starters, mains, and desserts, complemented by free-flowing bubbles. Dishes include beef carpaccio, foie gras terrine, short ribs, seared sea bream, truffle croque monsieur, and indulgent desserts like chocolate hazelnut foam and crème brûlée. Every Saturday & Sunday, 12pm – 3pm. Break the Block party On February 1, Break the Block takes over Al Wasl Plaza, Expo City Dubai, for an electrifying night of music, dance, and immersive visuals. Presented by Brag in collaboration with Expo City, this high-energy event features world-class DJs, independent artists, stunning light shows, and vibrant urban culture. Headlining the night is Bonobo, alongside JAEL and Rosey Gold from Soulection, delivering genre-defying beats. With buzzing bars, delicious bites, and non-stop music, this is the must-attend party of the season. Tickets start at Dh195 for ages 21+, available on Food festival Get ready for a culinary extravaganza at Dubai Parks and Resorts' RIVERLAND Dubai Food Festival. With over 24 dining options and 100+ dishes, visitors can indulge in global flavours from Italian classics to juicy burgers and authentic Indian snacks. The festival also features live music, DJ sets, parades, Dino meet-and-greets, kids' activities, and dazzling eco-friendly laser shows, capped off by fireworks every Saturday at 9.30pm. Tickets start at Dh50, including food tokens and festival entry. Arabesque afternoon tea Indulge in the Arabesque Afternoon Tea at Al Bayt, Palace Dubai Creek Harbour, where tradition meets contemporary elegance. Set against the stunning backdrop of Dubai Creek Harbour, this refined experience offers a curated selection of artisanal pastries and savoury delights, complemented by impeccable service and breathtaking views of the Dubai skyline. Available daily from 3pm to 6pm, the experience is priced at Dh190 per person (including a welcome drink and hot beverage) or Dh360 for two. For reservations, call 04 559 8870. Visit a fashion pop-up Themis Zouganeli, the visionary behind THEMIS Z, is hosting a weekend pop-up at Bungalo34 until February 2. Known for her timeless designs and collaborations with Dior Maison and Atelier Swarovski, Themis' partnership with Collective Africa brings collections that blend Greek elegance with modern sophistication. Featured items include bespoke porcelain plateware and her Hydra Collection of silk caftans and dresses, reflecting a commitment to refinement, sustainability, and artistry.
Khaleej Times
30-01-2025
- Automotive
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: Would you get your car washed by a 'ghost'? Haunted cleaning service starts at Dh50
Dubai's Al Rashidiya is buzzing with screams and excitement, thanks to a haunted car wash that combines terror with car cleaning services. Created by Dubai-born Egyptian brothers Omar and Ahmed Elrafie, the facility is redefining interactive entertainment with a chilling twist. As the shutters roll up, you're greeted by eerie red lights, horrifying sounds, and ghosts ready to deliver some serious scares. Cars roll through a tunnel of terror, where soapy water is sprayed onto windscreens by spectral figures who grunt and groan. One ghost climbs onto the bonnet, knife in hand, while another sneaks into the car, taking over the passenger seat. Just when you think the horrors are over, masked figures pop into the back seat, adding to the spine-chilling experience. 'It's a spooktacular, interactive experience,' said Omar Elrafie, who admitted he doesn't personally believe in ghosts. 'The response has been overwhelming — people, including adults, have left screaming. Omar emphasised that while the experience may be spooky, it doesn't compromise on quality. "Our main strength lies in offering impeccable car wash services, including styling.' The haunted car wash, known as Lamsat Alfakhama, features an all-costumed crew of up to 12 workers, trained intensively in body language and scare tactics. Each ghostly encounter is tailored to leave guests unnerved, yet impressed. 'Our staff sneaks into cars and makes customers believe they've left — only to jump back in,' Omar explained. The pricing is competitive, with a salon car wash at Dh50 and Dh60 for SUVs. Additional passengers pay Dh15 each. 'Our prices are at par with fuel station car washes, but the value is unmatched. You get a spotless car and a lot of fun. Haunted houses and escape rooms cost significantly more — starting at Dh200 — and you don't even leave with a clean car,' Omar added. To keep the chills fresh, Lamsat Alfakhama has plans to introduce new themes. From February 15, Squid Game-inspired experience will take over, featuring the iconic Red Light, Green Light game and the Cookie challenge, where one lucky participant will win Dh1,000. Other upcoming themes include Jurassic Park and Mental Hospital. Omar revealed that developing the concept was a journey of trial and error. 'We experimented with different backdrops, colour schemes, and costumes. I first invited my family and friends for a trial — they were scared. Then my fiancee came, and she was terrified. That's when I knew it was a hit.' Operating six hours daily, the facility serves around 50 cars per day. Omar and Ahmed are thrilled with the growing demand. 'This isn't just a car wash — it's a rollercoaster of screams, surprises, and spotless finishes,' Omar said. Ready to scream while getting your car cleaned? Head to Al Rashidiya — but be warned, it's not for the faint-hearted.
