Core Insights - The Chinese quick-frozen food industry is undergoing a structural transformation while maintaining continuous growth, with the market size approaching 600 billion RMB in 2024 and expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8%-10% over the next five years [1][13][15] - The industry is characterized by a clear differentiation in product categories, with traditional quick-frozen rice and noodle products stabilizing in growth but still holding nearly 50% market share in the consumer segment [1][14] - Quick-frozen hot pot ingredients are experiencing rapid growth driven by the booming hot pot industry, while quick-frozen dishes (the core form of prepared dishes) are emerging as a key growth driver due to demand for convenience and cost efficiency in both B2B and B2C segments [1][14] Market Size and Structure - The overall market size of the quick-frozen food industry in China was approximately 420 billion RMB in 2018, growing to over 550 billion RMB by 2023, with projections nearing 600 billion RMB in 2024 [33][34] - The market growth is driven by both B2B and B2C structural demands, with B2B demand for standardized products in the restaurant sector being particularly strong [33][38] - The consumer segment is increasingly focused on convenience, with trends such as the "lazy economy" and smaller household sizes driving demand for quick-frozen foods [33][38] Industry Chain Analysis - Upstream raw materials account for 60%-70% of total costs, making price fluctuations a direct influence on company profits [2] - Midstream processing relies on automation, fresh-lock technology, and nationwide capacity layout as core competitive advantages [2] - Downstream cold chain logistics face challenges such as high costs and uneven development, but are improving with policy support and the rise of third-party logistics [2] Competitive Landscape - The market exhibits a "one strong, many strong" and highly fragmented structure, with Anjuke Foods leading the B2B channel and brands like Sanquan and Si Nian dominating the C2C rice and noodle market [2][14] - Core competitive barriers are concentrated in supply chain efficiency, channel coverage, and brand R&D capabilities, with new entrants and cross-industry players enriching the competitive landscape [2][14] Consumer Behavior Insights - The primary consumer demographic includes Generation Z and young professionals, with 1-2 person households being the main consumption unit [2] - Consumer motivations have shifted from mere sustenance to convenience, quality, and situational needs, with health consciousness and ingredient quality becoming significant purchasing factors [2] - O2O instant retail and community group buying have emerged as mainstream purchasing channels [2] Future Development Trends - The industry is expected to evolve towards four major trends: product structure high-end and health-oriented, deep integration of prepared dishes, B/C channel collaboration and differentiation, and intelligent supply chain upgrades [2][15] - Companies that can seize opportunities in prepared dishes, balance B/C development, and build efficient supply chains will gain advantages in the industry transformation [2][15]