消费者不爱,资本退潮,植物肉在中国的故事讲不下去了?

Core Viewpoint - Beyond Meat, known as the "first stock of plant-based meat," has ceased operations on Tmall and Pinduoduo, indicating a potential exit from the Chinese market [1][2]. Company Developments - Beyond Meat has closed its flagship stores and halted production at its factory in Jiaxing, with its official social media accounts last updated on October 1 [2]. - The company previously had successful collaborations with major brands like Starbucks and Yum China, launching plant-based products that gained consumer interest [2][3]. - Despite initial success, sales in retail channels have not met expectations, with the best-selling product, a plant-based burger patty, only achieving monthly sales of approximately 400 units [3][4]. Financial Performance - Beyond Meat's revenue has been declining, projected to drop from $419 million in 2022 to $326 million in 2024, with cumulative losses reaching $864 million [5]. - In response to financial pressures, the company has implemented significant cost-cutting measures, including a plan to suspend operations in China and reduce its workforce by 95% [5]. Market Trends - The plant-based meat sector has seen a significant decline in investment, with a 64% drop in global venture capital for plant-based companies in 2024 [7]. - Consumer feedback indicates a lack of interest in plant-based meat, with 74% of Chinese consumers stating they do not plan to repurchase these products due to taste and price concerns [9]. - Major food brands have stopped offering plant-based meat products, reflecting a shift in market strategy as consumer demand wanes [9][10]. Future Outlook - Experts suggest that while the plant-based meat market may have potential for recovery in the long term, short-term prospects remain challenging due to taste and price issues [10].