Saiso emerges as North Gyeongsang’s leading online marketplace for agricultural products

【Financial News, Andong = Kim Jang-wook】 Saiso, an online shopping mall for North Gyeongsang Province’s agricultural and specialty products, is emerging as the leading online marketplace for the province’s agricultural products.
Driven by demand for the Chuseok holiday, Saiso recorded sales of 18.7 billion won in September alone, North Gyeongsang Province said. That was an increase of 4.6 billion won from the same month last year. Cumulative sales reached 50.5 billion won, achieving 88.7% of the annual target of 57 billion won.
“September’s results reflect the quality competitiveness of North Gyeongsang’s agricultural and specialty products, combined with marketing that responds to consumer demand and a variety of sales channels,” said Park Chan-guk, director-general of the Agricultural and Livestock Products Distribution Bureau. “We will continue to strengthen Saiso’s competitiveness so that consumers can buy with confidence and farmers can sell reliably, achieving both Saiso’s sustained growth and higher farm incomes,” he stressed.
According to the province, Saiso’s cumulative sales were up 6.4 billion won, or 14.7%, from 44.1 billion won in the same period last year. If the growth trend continues over the remaining period, the annual sales target is expected to be within reach.
In particular, ahead of Chuseok, Saiso responded to consumer demand by offering customized discount coupons and running a gift-set promotion. It also held Saiso Time Deals and a showcase of products recommended by cities and counties, featuring regional specialties such as seasonal produce and a gourmet showcase of nourishing foods to beat the heat.
As of the end of September, Saiso had 339,994 members, an increase of 42,518 from 297,476 at the end of last year. Membership grew by 14.3%, surpassing the annual target of 330,000.
There were 2,944 farms selling through the platform, up 177 from the end of last year. It also secured more than 11,000 products for sale. Consumers now have a wider selection of North Gyeongsang agricultural and specialty products, while farms and businesses have expanded their online sales channels.
Meanwhile, the province plans to expand Saiso’s online sales channels and continue supporting sales by participating farms.

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