SOUTH KOREA. Lotte Duty Free yesterday hosted a briefing for 180 travel industry officials and guides from 50 agencies as part of a drive to attract foreign visitors to Korea, notably those from China, Japan and Southeast Asia.
Held at the Lotte Cinema World Tower in Seoul, it was the first such event arranged by the travel retailer since before the pandemic, and comes as inbound travel accelerates.
The company outlined the role of Lotte Duty Free, Lotte Hotel and Lotte World to tourism infrastructure in the country. It explained its customer services and introduced some up and coming Korean cosmetics brands to its guests. Brands such as Belif, BBIA, Amuse and Numbuz:n and Fwee were among those to take part with product experiences and giveaways.
Lotte Duty Free said it plans to enhance its joint marketing with affiliates such as Lotte Hotel and Lotte World – including developing new travel packages for visitors – as well as deepening relationships with travel agencies, to boost tourism.
Lotte Duty Free began enhanced marketing last year to attract overseas guests with its LDF Original Series featuring popular music acts. In February it held a fan meeting for Japanese visitors with girl band Twice.
Lotte Duty Free Promotion Division Head Namgung-pyo said: “As the number of international travellers has recently recovered to 60-70% of the pre-COVID-19 level, Lotte Duty Free will continue to attract tourists based on partnerships with travel agencies, and Lotte Duty Free will go beyond shopping destinations to become essential tourism destinations.” ✈
