Honolulu: BGF Retail Co., the operator of CU convenience stores, announced plans to open its first CU outlet in Hawaii this October as part of its global expansion strategy. The entry into the U.S. marks a significant milestone for the South Korean company as it continues to broaden its international footprint.
According to Yonhap News Agency, BGF Retail has established a local subsidiary and signed a master franchise agreement with CU Hawaii LLC, a new entity formed by the local firm WKF Inc. This agreement allows CU Hawaii LLC not only to open new franchise units but also to sub-franchise them to other parties, facilitating rapid expansion within the specified area.
The company plans to introduce popular South Korean offerings such as gimbap, which is gaining traction in the U.S. as a healthy food option, and instant ramyeon cooking stations, which provide a quintessential South Korean culinary experience for tourists. This strategic introduction aims to attract both local customers and international visitors.
Notably, BGF Retail will be the first South Korean retail company to enter the U.S. convenience store market, a sector that began in the United States in 1927. Hawaii will become BGF Retail's fourth overseas market, following successful expansions into Mongolia, Malaysia, and Kazakhstan.
Currently, BGF Retail operates 680 CU outlets across Mongolia, Malaysia, and Kazakhstan, in addition to 18,600 domestic locations in South Korea. The company aims to further expand its presence with plans to reach 500 outlets in Mongolia this year and 500 each in Malaysia and Kazakhstan by 2028 and 2029, respectively.