Core Viewpoint - The major food delivery platforms in China, including Meituan, Ele.me, and JD.com, have collectively announced an end to "zero-yuan purchase" and other forms of vicious competition, signaling a shift towards healthy competition focused on brand value [1][3][5]. Group 1: Market Reaction - Following the announcement, the stock prices of Meituan, Alibaba, and JD.com rose significantly, with increases exceeding 3% [2]. - The capital market's positive response indicates a strong endorsement of the shift away from price wars towards brand value competition [3][5]. Group 2: Impact of Price Wars - The price wars have been detrimental to the industry, leading to a "three losses" scenario where no party benefits [3][4]. - The vicious cycle of subsidies and price cuts has harmed merchants' profits, riders' rights, and consumer experiences, resulting in a distorted ecosystem [4]. - The surge in daily food delivery orders from 100 million to 220 million has primarily benefited large chain brands, while small merchants have been pushed out [4]. Group 3: Transition to Brand Value Competition - The collective shift by the three platforms marks a new phase in the Chinese internet sector, moving from "capital-driven" to "rule co-construction" [5][6]. - Emphasizing brand value signifies a correction in business logic, reconstruction of industry ecology, and re-establishment of corporate competitiveness [5]. - The new competition will prioritize quality over scale, with initiatives like Meituan's "Raccoon Canteen" and JD.com's "Seven Fresh Kitchen" focusing on quality control and customer experience [5]. Group 4: Technological and Ecological Advancements - The evolution towards efficiency involves leveraging technology, such as Meituan's smart helmets and JD.com's logistics collaboration, to enhance delivery speed and service quality [5][6]. - The platforms are also restructuring their ecosystems to promote mutual benefits, including providing social security for riders and ensuring merchants' pricing autonomy [6]. - This strategic upgrade reflects a shift from "traffic thinking" to "brand thinking," focusing on long-term value creation and social contributions [6][7].
告别恶性价格战,回归“品牌价值战”