Homeplus Co. General Labor Union welcomed the execution of 200 billion won in debtor-in-possession (DIP) emergency operating funds but said on the 6th that specific operating strategies and on-site communication for reopening are lacking. With some product deliveries still delayed and logistics and supply continuing to face disruptions, observers say it will take more time to fully resume normal operations.
The Homeplus Co. general union said in a statement that day, "We welcome the execution of DIP funds. As agreed with management, we expect 60% of the June wages, which were delayed, to be paid immediately upon the inflow of funds," and added, "At least 52 to as many as 70 people are reporting to work at each of the 67 stores nationwide to lay the groundwork for normal operations."
Homeplus Co. plans to hold a soft opening from the 7th to the 12th, followed by an official opening and discount event on the 13th. E-commerce (online) delivery will also be expanded in phases in line with the official opening around the 13th, starting with 20 stores and growing to as many as 59 stores.
The union said, "However, logistics and supply are still experiencing disruptions, including delays in some product deliveries," and added, "Given the current state of inbound goods and on-site conditions, it will be realistically difficult to carry out the soft opening on the 7th without a hitch."
It added, "We view the soft opening as essentially advance preparation for reopening, and overall normal operations will only be possible on the 12th to 13th," and said, "Management should look soberly at on-site readiness rather than push an unrealistic schedule."
The union stressed that restoring trust with suppliers is the top priority for normalizing operations. In particular, it said that the resumption of deliveries by NongHyup, which has handled more than half of the fresh food supply—the core of supermarket operations—will determine the success or failure of the reopening.
It also pointed out that for the new "Trader Joe's" style business model management is pursuing, no detailed strategies or guidelines have been presented for on-site application. The union said future timelines leading up to the soft opening and official opening have also not been sufficiently shared with tenants and small business owners.
The union said, "Questions and anxiety are growing during the reopening process," and noted that the 200 billion won in DIP seed money must not go to waste. It added, "The ball is now entirely in the current Homeplus Co. management's court. To avoid missing the golden time for Homeplus Co.'s rehabilitation, management must take responsible action with transparent management and communication."