Samsung Electronics said on the 5th it will hold the "With the people, Samsung Electronics appreciation festival," under which, for four weeks from the 8th through July 5, every customer who buys its products will receive a refund in Onnuri gift certificates equal to 20% of the purchase amount. Applications can be made on the event page on Samsung.com, and customers who buy offline can also receive Onnuri gift certificates by attaching proof such as receipts.
The event is part of Samsung Electronics' plan to carry out its pledge to "expand social contribution by 5 trillion won," made during wage talks with the labor union. Samsung Electronics noted that achievements in semiconductors in the AI era were made with the public's support and backing, and said it prepared this event to give back. The total amount of Onnuri gift certificates to be given to customers during the event is expected to reach about 400 billion won.
Samsung Electronics chose refunds in Onnuri gift certificates instead of direct discounts with the aim of mutual growth with local small merchants and small and midsize enterprises and to boost the domestic economy. The Onnuri gift certificates will be provided in digital form, and they have established themselves as everyday, close-to-life currency that can be used like cash not only at traditional markets nationwide but also in neighborhood business districts such as convenience stores and local restaurants.
In fact, the Onnuri gift certificates are producing tangible effects in revitalizing local economies. According to materials the Small Enterprise and Market Service released in March this year, sales at affiliated stores that accept Onnuri gift certificates increased by about 4% immediately after joining, and the sales boost grew over time, reaching 5.0% in the first year, 9.2% in the second year and 12.2% in the third year.
Samsung Electronics said, "We will continue to reflect on the public's expectations and standards and pursue fundamental thinking on what role corporations should play in our society." The company said it put the focus on ensuring that Samsung Electronics' achievements can return directly and indirectly to all people through traditional markets and local small-merchant shops via this appreciation festival.