Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-12-15 21:10Core Viewpoint - The rebranding of Ele.me to Taobao Flash Purchase signifies a strategic restructuring by Alibaba, aiming to integrate instant retail into the core e-commerce battlefield, enhancing user recognition and expanding product categories [1][10]. Group 1: Reasons for Rebranding - The name "Ele.me" was limiting consumer perception, primarily associating it with food delivery, which restricted the potential for broader instant retail offerings [3][4]. - The new name "Taobao Flash Purchase" immediately communicates the concept of instant retail, making it clear to users that they can purchase a variety of items quickly [4][6]. Group 2: Integration of Services - The merger of Taobao's e-commerce traffic and Ele.me's delivery capabilities into a single platform simplifies the user experience, addressing previous confusion about where to order from [6][11]. - The unified platform allows for faster delivery of a wider range of products, enhancing customer satisfaction and addressing common user concerns [6][7]. Group 3: Strategic Importance - The rebranding is a critical component of Alibaba's "far, middle, near integration" strategy, positioning instant retail as a central focus in the competitive landscape [9][10]. - By integrating instant retail into the Taobao ecosystem, Alibaba aims to capture high-frequency urban consumption, which is essential for future growth [9][12]. Group 4: Competitive Landscape Changes - The competition in instant retail is shifting from speed and cost to stability, predictability, and trustworthiness, emphasizing the importance of reliable service delivery [12][16]. - The focus on "certainty" in delivery will become a core capability for the industry, influencing how companies like Jiefeng Express approach their operations [13][16]. Group 5: Implications for the Industry - The transition from Ele.me to Taobao Flash Purchase is not merely a rebranding but a significant move to elevate instant retail within the e-commerce sector [16]. - Future competition will hinge on the ability to deliver consistent and reliable service rather than just speed or subsidies [16].