新潮观鱼：品牌破局还是自降身价，茅台需要明星代言吗？

Core Viewpoint - Moutai's recent decision to appoint a celebrity spokesperson, Zhang Yixing, for its subsidiary Moutai Culture and Tourism, aims to attract younger consumers who are less inclined to drink traditional liquor and are critical of drinking culture [1][6][19] Group 1: Celebrity Endorsement Strategy - Zhang Yixing, a 34-year-old singer and actor, has been appointed as the spokesperson for Moutai Culture and Tourism, which is a subsidiary of Moutai, not the main brand itself [1][6] - The endorsement has sparked debate among fans and the public regarding whether a celebrity can effectively modernize the brand without diluting its high-end image [1][13] - Moutai's strategy reflects a broader trend in the liquor industry to engage younger demographics through celebrity endorsements, similar to practices seen in luxury brands [22][23] Group 2: Product Offerings and Sales Performance - Moutai Culture and Tourism sells creative liquor products, including collaborations with cultural institutions, and offers mini bottles (200ml) paired with cultural items [3][5] - The flagship product promoted during the endorsement was a Dragon Boat Festival gift box priced at 2999 yuan, which includes two mini bottles of liquor and tea products [8][9] - Initial sales were strong, with hundreds of gift boxes sold shortly after the announcement, but the product quickly fell off the sales rankings, indicating potential challenges in sustaining interest [9][11] Group 3: Market Position and Consumer Engagement - Moutai Culture and Tourism reported a revenue of over 3.2 billion yuan in 2023, with creative product sales exceeding 600 million yuan, showcasing its significant market presence [6][19] - The target demographic for Zhang Yixing's endorsement includes a large proportion of young fans, with over 60% aged 18-30, indicating a strategic focus on this consumer group [6][19] - Despite the endorsement, there is skepticism among Moutai shareholders about the necessity of celebrity endorsements, with some believing it could undermine the brand's prestigious image [13][15] Group 4: Industry Context and Challenges - The Chinese liquor industry is facing a decline in effective demand and high inventory levels, prompting brands like Moutai to seek innovative ways to connect with younger consumers [19][30] - Moutai's attempts to diversify its offerings, such as through collaborations with ice cream and coffee brands, reflect a desire to reposition itself as a trendy product rather than just a traditional liquor [32] - The challenge remains for Moutai to maintain its high-end status while appealing to a younger audience that may reject traditional drinking customs [30][32]