It was confirmed on the 5th that CJ FoodVille, which operates VIPS and Tous les Jours, along with CJ CGV and Shilla Duty Free, has suspended the use of gift cards at Homeplus, the second-largest supermarket that has applied for corporate rehabilitation. This is interpreted as a measure to preemptively block delays in gift card settlements that could occur once the rehabilitation process begins. The retail industry is monitoring the situation, believing similar measures may follow.
According to the retail industry, CJ FoodVille suspended the use of gift cards in response to Homeplus's application for rehabilitation proceedings. Shilla Duty Free also took the same action. CJ CGV has also decided not to accept Homeplus gift cards. It has been reported that Shilla Hotel and others have entered discussions regarding the use of gift cards with Homeplus.
This action follows Homeplus's application for corporate rehabilitation proceedings on the 4th in a proactive response to potential funding issues due to a credit rating decline. Homeplus has stated that, regardless of the application for rehabilitation proceedings, all channel operations, including large supermarkets, express logistics, and online, are being conducted normally. The retail industry sees a possibility that the atmosphere of suspending gift card use may spread.
The places that accept Homeplus gift cards include over 20 locations such as Homeplus supermarkets and express stores, Shilla Duty Free, Enter6, Outback Steakhouse, Dr. Robin, Everland, Caribbean Bay, Shilla Stay, and Hotel Shilla.