Many of you may have wondered why your local Family Mart has suddenly disappeared and been replaced by a CU or CU Later or even CVS for You.
I personally was a little surprised at why there was a real need to change the name. However after reading this article (Rebranded Family Mart will CU later) I feel can understand the thinking behind it in this simple quote.
“The name CU, an abbreviation of ‘Convenience for You,’ represents the transformation into an independent convenience store rather than just an imitation of Japanese models”
It is a gradual process which means that your local Family Mart may not change for at least a few months.
CU Mart at Night (March 2013)
Closing
Any questions or comments please let us know.
Tim Modern Seoul tim@modernseoul.org
Modern Seoul 
CU has extremely poor service!!! Plus it is WAY TOO EXPENSIVE!! My appologies, but I will NEVER use a CU store agin! (Which, by the way, sounded so much better when it was Family Mart…and CU sounds uninviting). At any rate, you need to re-train your cashiers! I have NEVER EVER seen one of your cashiers, in and out of Seoul, South Korea, smile or ever say have a nice day like they do in other convenient stores. I ALWAYS walk out the door shaking my head because I felt like there was no friendliness or ‘warmth’ in your staff. I’ve actually received more help and smiles with your customers!!! WHAT THE HELL IS THAT??!!!
The only reason I started going to CU is because a chain recently opened in Muju, South Korea. and it is logically placed close to my home-3 minutes max. walking distance and the two elementary and junior high schools in the local area. There has been at least 3-4 students there after school ends at any given moment.
But HOT DIGGITY DAMN, you’re EXPENSIVE!!!!!!! I can go to the local city market and buy the exact product for at least 300-400 Korean won less than what you offer!!
Like I said, I will NEVER EVER again use CU-even though it’s convenient, nor will I ever recommend a shopper to use your store. It is entirely up to the shopper, but I-personally-will not.
You’ve just lost a shopper.