Core Viewpoint - Traditional supermarkets in China, once thriving, are now struggling to adapt to changing consumer preferences and competition from new retail formats, leading to a significant decline in their market position [5][12][13]. Group 1: Traditional Supermarkets' Decline - Traditional supermarkets like RT-Mart have faced unprecedented operational pressures, leading to a sale at a significant loss to Dehong Capital [7]. - RT-Mart's parent company, Gaoxin Retail, reported a slight revenue decline of 1.4% year-on-year for the fiscal year 2025, despite achieving a net profit of 386 million yuan, indicating ongoing challenges in its transformation journey [9]. - Other traditional supermarkets such as Wumart, Carrefour, and Yonghui are also experiencing downturns and are attempting to regain growth through store upgrades and operational adjustments [10]. Group 2: Shift in Consumer Preferences - New retail formats like Pinduoduo, Hema, Sam's Club, and Costco are attracting younger consumers by offering not just products but also lifestyle experiences [11][12]. - The rise of "instant retail" and membership warehouse models has created a stark contrast to traditional supermarkets, which are losing relevance as consumer preferences shift towards convenience and unique shopping experiences [30][31]. - The market for instant retail in China has surpassed 650 billion yuan in 2023, with a compound annual growth rate of 56%, while traditional supermarkets face declining revenues and store closures [32]. Group 3: Evolution of Retail Formats - The traditional supermarket model is being challenged by a trend towards smaller, more efficient retail formats that cater to urban consumers' fast-paced lifestyles [35][36]. - New retail models focus on a limited selection of high-quality products, enhancing shopping efficiency and brand loyalty, contrasting with the overwhelming variety offered by traditional supermarkets [37][38]. - The emergence of private label brands and exclusive products in new retail formats has shifted consumer expectations, making traditional supermarkets' offerings seem less appealing [39][40]. Group 4: Future Directions for Traditional Supermarkets - Traditional supermarkets are beginning to recognize the need for transformation, inspired by successful models like Pinduoduo, which emphasize customer experience and emotional engagement [54][55]. - RT-Mart is exploring partnerships and pilot projects to enhance its fresh food processing capabilities and reposition stores as community commercial centers [59]. - The evolution of consumer preferences necessitates a fundamental rethinking of how traditional supermarkets operate, focusing on understanding and meeting modern consumer needs [61].
什么都卖的大超市，正在被挤出市中心？