Homeplus to Resume Operations at 67 Stores Next Month Amid Recovery Efforts

Homeplus, currently undergoing corporate rehabilitation, is expected to resume operations at its large stores around August 10. The company plans to restore its supply chain and logistics as soon as emergency operational funds (DIP) are received, aiming to reopen stores within a week of the funds' arrival.

According to industry sources on July 28, Homeplus held discussions with its labor unions the previous day regarding the timeline for reopening and the use of operational funds. The company anticipates receiving 200 billion won in DIP from Meritz Financial Group between July 31 and August 3. Homeplus has reportedly set a goal to reopen stores within seven days of receiving the funds.

If the funds arrive on July 31, the stores could reopen as early as August 7; if they arrive on August 3, the reopening may occur around August 10. Homeplus had suspended operations at 67 key stores nationwide since July 13 due to a depletion of operational funds.

Preparations for reopening are already underway. The purchasing team at the headquarters is negotiating with suppliers of fresh and processed foods to resume product deliveries. They are also preparing to activate logistics centers and recruit delivery drivers.

Before the suspension of operations, Homeplus reportedly secured about 30 billion won through a maximum 50% discount event. This funding was used to cover part of June's wages and utility bills. The incoming DIP funds will primarily be allocated to normalizing product supply and settling unpaid wages and severance for former employees.

Additionally, discussions are ongoing regarding support measures for tenants and small business owners within the malls. Homeplus plans to consider reducing fees through discussions with its operational team.

Meanwhile, the government has begun assessing the impact of the situation. Kang Gi-ryong, Deputy Minister of Finance, held a meeting on July 24 at the Government Seoul Building to review the damages and support measures for workers and partner companies. From July 3 to 23, a total of 1,935 consultations were recorded at the Ministry of Employment and Labor's one-stop counseling center.