CU, operated by BGF Retail, is introducing a functional ice cream aimed at runners.
On the 21st, CU said it will launch a functional ice cream, "Run & Cool," developed to be enjoyed cold after a run. Run & Cool contains 1,100 mg of BCAA (essential amino acids) and 850 mg of taurine.
It will be released in two flavors: "lime," highlighting lime's signature fresh and crisp taste, and "grapefruit," with a sweet yet pleasantly bitter grapefruit note. The product comes in a tube format for easy carrying and consumption. It is designed to be convenient not only for running but also during outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and cycling.
CU said it is introducing this product as running is spreading beyond Millennials and Gen Z to become a representative health and leisure activity across all generations. Running crews are active across the country, and fashion, food and beverage, and healthcare markets centered on running are also growing rapidly.
CU is also pursuing a strategy that links running spaces with communities in line with this shift. Earlier this year, CU became the first in the industry to unveil a "running station" near Yeouido Hangang Park in Seoul, combining runner-friendly amenities such as changing rooms and a powder zone with running-focused products. Recently, it expanded this to Jeju and is working to build a nationwide running platform.
Stores with running stations also saw related product sales rise. CU's analysis of sales at those stores from April to May this year showed that, compared with a year earlier, bottled water sales rose 211.9%, sports and ion drinks 195.0%, energy bars 188.1%, and protein drinks 179.8%.
The launch of Run & Cool was planned to extend CU's running ecosystem, built through running stations and running members, into the product category. After securing offline hubs and communities related to running, CU aims to bolster its competitiveness as a running lifestyle platform by increasing dedicated products that can be consumed before and after exercise.
CU plans to expand collaborations with various sports brands and dedicated products centered on running stations and running members. To mark the launch, CU is running a 2+1 promotion through the 30th.
Ryu Jin-young, snack foods team MD at BGF Retail, said, "As running has taken root as a lifestyle culture, interest is growing in products that can be enjoyed before and after workouts," adding, "Run & Cool reflects the needs of these runners, and CU will continue to roll out a variety of differentiated products linked to running to expand the running ecosystem."