年轻人为何偏爱“租赁消费”？

Core Viewpoint - The rental economy is rapidly growing in China, driven by a shift in consumer preferences among young people who favor "usage over ownership" and seek flexible, cost-effective solutions for various products and services [2][4][5]. Group 1: Market Growth and Trends - The rental economy in China is projected to exceed 4.2 trillion yuan in transaction volume by 2024, representing a 32% year-on-year growth, with over 750 million users [2]. - Diverse rental demands are evident, with significant increases in search volumes for camera rentals (63%), wedding dress rentals (109%), and children's stroller rentals (165%) in August [2]. - The rental market has expanded from traditional categories like housing and vehicles to include apparel, beauty products, digital devices, and baby products, showcasing a trend towards diversification and digital services [3][4]. Group 2: Young Consumers as Key Drivers - Young consumers, particularly those born in the 1990s and 2000s, are becoming the main force in the rental market, emphasizing experiences over ownership and valuing cost-effectiveness and environmental considerations [5]. - The concept of "shared wardrobes" is gaining popularity among young people, allowing them to access a variety of clothing styles at a lower cost, thus freeing up space at home [4]. Group 3: Challenges and Recommendations - The rapid expansion of the rental market has led to increased consumer disputes and challenges such as unclear contracts and damage assessments [6]. - Experts suggest establishing a multi-stakeholder governance system involving government, platforms, businesses, and consumers to regulate the rental market effectively [6]. - Recommendations include enhancing service standards, ensuring transparency in contracts, and exploring innovative business models like "rental + subscription" to meet diverse consumer needs [6].