Sou Hu Cai Jing·2026-01-04 08:35Core Viewpoint - The launch of iMoutai on January 1, 2026, marks the beginning of Moutai's market-oriented reform and a significant transformation in the Chinese liquor industry, affecting manufacturers, distributors, and consumers alike [2][4][20]. Group 1: Market Reforms and Strategies - Moutai's chairman emphasized a consumer-centric approach to drive market-oriented transformation, while Wuliangye and Fenjiu also announced unprecedented reform measures during their dealer conferences [2][4][6]. - The 2025 dealer conference for Moutai introduced significant changes, including the cancellation of distribution and the establishment of an e-commerce company, which some dealers viewed as revolutionary [4][10]. - Wuliangye shifted its strategy from "co-discussion, co-construction, and sharing" to "consensus, co-construction, and sharing," reflecting the industry's adaptation to new trends [6][20]. Group 2: Consumer Focus and Market Challenges - The liquor industry is facing a challenging environment, with expectations of continued weak consumption in Q4 2025, influenced by a later Spring Festival compared to 2025 [4][20]. - Moutai aims to enhance consumer experience and loyalty by transitioning from selling products to selling lifestyles, focusing on emotional value and consumer rights protection [13][20]. - Fenjiu's strategy emphasizes co-creation with consumers, leveraging cultural and digital support to enhance emotional value [15][20]. Group 3: Channel Management and Inventory Control - All three companies are prioritizing healthy channel development, implementing measures to help distributors manage inventory and meet customer demands, while penalizing non-compliant distributors [10][20]. - Wuliangye terminated partnerships with 55 underperforming distributors, while Fenjiu took extensive actions against non-compliant distributors, including canceling contracts and conducting thousands of investigations [10][20]. Group 4: Product and Marketing Innovations - Moutai is focusing on a pyramid structure for its product lineup, emphasizing flagship products while stimulating demand for cultural and collectible items [20]. - Wuliangye is set to enhance its product strategy with a focus on new consumer demographics, including younger and female consumers, while also expanding into international markets [16][20]. - Fenjiu is developing new products aimed at younger consumers and is actively engaging in KOL/KOC marketing on platforms like Xiaohongshu and Douyin [18][20].