Distribution in China in 2026: where the growth is and how to capture it
China is a RMB 50 trillion retail market, and the channels that sell the most change every two or three years. For a foreign brand, distribution is where the growth is won or lost. Updated on 3 September 2026. First published in July 2012. RMB 50.1 trn Retail sales of consumer goods in 2025 (NBS) […]
Flower market in China: From festival gifting to everyday emotional consumption
While flowers remain important within Chinese gifting habits, market growth is increasingly being driven by daily consumption. In China’s emotional purchase economy, flowers are playing a more important role in bringing comfort, happiness, and a sense of healing into everyday life. Consumers either gift flowers for themselves or for others on non-special occasions, creating small […]
Guochao in China raises expectations for localization among foreign brands
In the last few years, national confidence has exerted a significant influence on consumption trends in China. Within this changing landscape, Guochao (国潮 – literally “National Tide”) exists. This trend is a reflection of the younger generation’s profound interest in China’s culture, traditions, and domestic brands, reflecting a cultural shift towards domestic products and a […]
174,000 openings, 137,000 closures in a year: The evolution and uncertain future of Chinese modern tea sector
The Chinese modern tea sector has matured significantly since 2020, completing a transition from a volume-driven expansion model to a quality-focused era. In terms of growth, we can see this reflected in the shift from an average growth rate of 24.9% CAGR between 2017 and 2022 to a growth rate of 6.4% in 2024. The […]
China investment strategy in 2026: Harbin VS Zhengzhou, and how to reach the young consumer
“Harbin is a major city in far-north China, with a population of 10 million and over 4 million in the city center. (…) And it is influenced a lot by Russia, especially in architecture and food.” This is how our team opened its brief market research on Harbin in July 2012. The same week, we […]
Building a pop-up store in China that leaves a lasting impression
As Chinese consumers place more value on experiences than products, pop-up stores have become an important tool for brands. They offer unique and authentic moments that connect with people’s lifestyles, cultures, and values. These experiences often stay with consumers long after their visit. In the rapidly changing market, a pop-up store in China helps brands […]
Lego in China: Conquering the toy market one block at a time
With almost 300 million kids under the age of 18 in 2023, the Chinese toy and games market is extremely profitable. It is expected to reach a revenue of more than USD 19.1 billion in 2025. Lego is among the major players in this sector, holding over 43% of the market share in the construction toy category as of 2021. Due […]
Omnichannel strategies in China: luxury brands’ attempts to multiply consumer touchpoints
China’s luxury market seeks steady recovery amidst challenges in 2022, which rebounded in 2023, as the market is driven by core luxury consumers who are less financially impacted by a slowing GDP. With the vigorous development of domestic luxury e-commerce, omnichannel luxury retail is making progress in China. Luxury brands are not merely adapting to […]
Lead generation in China: Strategies tailored to cultural nuances and digital landscape
China, a global economic powerhouse, presents immense opportunities for businesses looking to expand their reach and tap into its vast consumer market. Mastering lead generation strategies tailored to the Chinese landscape is crucial for success. The unique characteristics and challenges of the Chinese market With a population of over 1.4 billion people, China offers an […]
The science of IP collaboration in China: How to craft the perfect co-branding strategy
IP collaboration is a co-branding method where two or more brands mesh their brand assets (whether it be logos, colors or mascots) to create a new product or service. In the recent years, IP collaboration in China has exploded in popularity among both domestic and international brands. Differences in IP collaboration in China and the […]
What is the recipe for successful China market entry strategy?
Navigating the complexities of China’s business culture and political environment is crucial for a successful market entry. With over 1.4 billion inhabitants, China has the largest population in the world, offering businesses a vast pool of potential customers and clients. The middle class in the nation is also growing quickly as more and more people […]
Rebranding success: KANS’ transformation into a leading anti-ageing skincare brand in China
KANS (韩束) is a Chinese skincare brand founded by parent company Shanghai Chicmax cosmetics in 2002. Prior to its re-brand in 2021, KANS functioned as a medium-to-high-end skincare brand within the company’s portfolio, focusing on providing effective skincare products for Chinese women under the slogan “Science realises your beauty”. In 2021, the brand underwent a […]