SEOUL, July 18 (AJP) - Samsung Electronics' nationwide rebate campaign, launched as part of its pledge to share the benefits of its semiconductor windfall with the public, generated an estimated 4 trillion won ($2.9 billion) in sales, industry estimates showed Friday, prompting the company to more than double the value of vouchers it plans to distribute.
Samsung is expected to issue more than 800 billion won ($580 million) worth of digital Onnuri gift certificates under the campaign, up from its original budget of 400 billion won, according to industry estimates. As customers received vouchers worth 20 percent of their purchases, the payout implies total sales of around 4 trillion won during the promotion.
The "Samsung Electronics Appreciation Festival" ran from June 8 to July 5 across more than 1,000 online and offline retail channels, including Samsung stores, electronics retailers, hypermarkets and e-commerce platforms. Customers who purchased eligible Samsung products received digital Onnuri gift certificates worth 20 percent of their spending, while military personnel, police officers, firefighters and correctional officers were offered benefits equivalent to 30 percent.
Rather than offering direct discounts, Samsung chose to provide Onnuri gift certificates — which can be used at traditional markets and small local businesses — in an effort to extend the economic benefits beyond consumers to regional merchants.
The campaign forms part of Samsung's commitment to invest 5 trillion won over the next five years in social contribution initiatives following last month's wage agreement with its labor unions. The company said the fund would support shared growth, a healthier industrial ecosystem and talent development.
The stronger-than-expected response has also created supply bottlenecks. Some unlocked Galaxy S26 Ultra models are reportedly facing delivery waits of about one month due to inventory shortages, while shipments of certain televisions and personal computers have also been delayed.
Samsung said it is increasing production of the Galaxy S26 series and prioritizing deliveries to ensure customers receive eligible products by Sept. 5, the deadline for qualifying for the rebate program. Applications for the digital Onnuri gift certificates can be submitted through Samsung's website until Sept. 30 after customers receive or install their purchases.
Samsung did not disclose official sales figures for the campaign but said it would continue to fulfill its responsibilities as a company that grows together with society through initiatives that meet public expectations.
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