Cheap PB Line 'Deuktem' Sells Rapidly at CU as Consumers Seek Low-Cost Essentials
Creatrip Team
2 months ago
CU’s low-price private brand (PB) 'Deuktem series' surpassed 100 million units sold as shoppers hunt budget items amid prolonged high inflation. Annual sales grew from 14 million in 2023 to 30 million in 2024 and 50 million last year. The line focuses on everyday staples—instant rice, eggs, tofu—as well as ready-to-eat items like chicken breast, hot bar snacks and drinking foods. CU adjusted product sizes (for example a 65g hot bar priced at 990 won) to match consumer preferences and even offers a 1,900-won beer made in collaboration with izakaya brand 'Saengmacha' (Japanese-style pub). To keep prices low, CU plans to streamline distribution and partner more with capable small and medium manufacturers to ensure steady quality and supply.
