Xin Lang Cai Jing·2025-09-30 06:12Core Insights - The insurance industry in China is accelerating the closure of branch offices, with 2,436 branches having exited the market in 2023 alone, compared to 2,012 in 2024, indicating a significant trend towards downsizing [1][2][6] Summary by Sections Branch Closures - Major insurance companies are focusing on reducing their branch networks, particularly in lower-tier cities and rural areas, as part of a strategy to enhance efficiency and reduce costs [2][3] - China Life Insurance has closed 582 branches this year, with 569 being marketing service departments, reflecting an increased pace of downsizing compared to previous years [2][4] - China Pacific Insurance and China Property & Casualty Insurance have also made significant cuts, with 89 and 298 branch closures respectively [4][5] New Branch Openings - Despite the closures, insurance companies have opened a total of 268 new branches this year, with China Ping An leading with 32 new branches [5][6] - The new branches primarily consist of marketing service departments, indicating a shift in focus rather than a complete withdrawal from the market [5] Long-term Trends - Since 2021, the insurance sector has seen over 10,000 branch closures, with the peak occurring in 2022, likely influenced by regulatory requirements and the need for operational efficiency [6][7] - The shift towards digitalization has led to an increase in online insurance purchases, with online purchase rates rising from 73% in 2023 to 78% in 2024, further reducing reliance on physical branches [6][7] Strategic Adjustments - Companies are adjusting their branch strategies to focus on core customer groups and optimize their networks, particularly in response to declining consumer spending in lower-tier cities [3][6] - The role of physical branches is evolving, with a potential shift towards providing comprehensive services such as wealth management and elder care, rather than just sales [7][8]