‘선지급 내걸고, 핵심 품목만’…식품업계-홈플러스 납품 정상화

Homeplus, a major supermarket, resumed regular operations on the 13th and has since been receiving supplies from major food companies. Some were concerned that discontinued supply would lead to a negative outlook, but since the major manufacturers have adjusted their output and negotiated payment, the risk management measures have been put in place.

On the day of Homeplus's reopening, manufacturers such as those producing instant noodles, processed foods, dairy products, and beverages resumed their supply of products. Initially, there were concerns about supply interruptions, but most major companies have continued to supply products. However, the supply methods have changed.

To prevent the risk of late payment, various safety measures have been put in place. Most processed food manufacturers have requested "prepayment" conditions instead of the traditional post-sale payment system. These companies are also adjusting their supply volumes based on the sales volume. In order to reduce the risk of late payment, the range of supplied items has also been narrowed down to focus on popular processed foods and representative instant noodles.

Beverage companies, for example, have provided bottled water, their own brand products (PB) first, and then expanded their supply range to popular items. The dairy product companies are also gradually resuming supply within the payment range, starting from small quantities. Despite the difficult trading conditions, large supermarket channels have a significant influence.

The impact of major sales channels disappearing is a burden for manufacturers, as well as the practical concern of abruptly ending long-standing business relationships. Another food industry insider pointed out that the loss of a long-standing channel is a significant blow to manufacturers and that they would rather trade within a reasonable risk range to sell products that are more likely to sell.

The unique production structure of food manufacturers also makes it difficult to completely stop supply.