Zhi Tong Cai Jing·2026-01-06 09:17Core Viewpoint - The demand for liquor during the New Year holiday was weak, with feedback indicating a year-on-year decline of over 20%, although there was slight improvement compared to November and December. The supply side is adjusting with lower targets from liquor companies, and channel inventory is expected to ease. The overall demand for the Spring Festival is anticipated to decline by double digits, but the drop is expected to be less severe than during the New Year holiday. High-end liquor prices are under pressure due to continuous shipments from Moutai and upcoming deliveries from traditional channels, with expectations of price stabilization after a decline [1][2][3][4]. Demand Analysis - The New Year demand was weak, with a year-on-year decline of over 20%, but there was a slight month-on-month improvement from November and December. The industry is still in the off-season, and consumer gatherings were limited. The estimated industry shipment volume during the New Year is expected to decline by over 10%, with significant reductions in business banquets and group purchases. High-end liquor prices have dropped by over 10%, while mid-range liquor prices have generally decreased by 5-10%. However, there are signs of resilience in mass consumption, particularly in regions like Sichuan and Anhui [2][3]. Supply Side Insights - Liquor companies are lowering their targets, and channels are expected to further reduce inventory pressure. Many companies have not met their initial collection targets for the year, leading to more conservative growth targets for 2026. The requirement for Spring Festival returns has been lowered to 30-40%, and companies are slowing down their shipment pace to manage channel inventory effectively. The willingness to collect payments is cautious, focusing on cash flow protection and maintaining core brand distribution rights [3][4]. Price Dynamics - High-end liquor prices are expected to remain under pressure, with Moutai's continuous shipments and upcoming deliveries affecting the market. The price of Moutai is anticipated to face marginal pressure, while Wuliangye's promotional activities may slightly stimulate sales. The price of mid-range liquor is at a relatively low level, with channel profits thinning, and prices are expected to stabilize at low levels during the Spring Festival [4][5]. Company Strategies - Moutai is advancing its marketing transformation and reducing distribution pressure by creating a pyramid product system and launching digital initiatives to stimulate consumer demand. Wuliangye is focusing on maintaining market order and enhancing channel incentives, while also pushing for improved sales and market share. Luzhou Laojiao is adjusting its product structure and promoting low-alcohol products, and Fenjiu is enhancing regional coverage for its products. Other companies like Gujing and Yanghe are also focusing on market penetration and channel management to improve sales performance [5][6]. Investment Recommendations - The pessimistic factors have been priced in, and as the Spring Festival approaches, demand recovery is expected. Moutai is recommended for its strong fundamentals, while Gujing is highlighted for its potential growth in the mass market segment. Other companies like Wuliangye, Shanxi Fenjiu, and Luzhou Laojiao are also under observation for their inventory clearance strategies. Innovative products like Zhenjiu Lidu are noted for their market potential [7].