HAIDILAO(HK:06862) Xin Hua Cai Jing·2026-01-07 12:40Group 1 - The core viewpoint is that the county-level market in China is showing strong consumer vitality and growth potential, becoming a new "blue ocean" for businesses to expand and seek incremental growth [1][2] - The sales performance of Hema stores in county-level cities has exceeded expectations, indicating a significant shift in consumer demand towards quality and experiential consumption in these areas [1] - Data from the National Bureau of Statistics shows that rural market sales growth is steady, with rural retail sales accounting for 38.7% of total social retail sales by November 2025 [1] Group 2 - Well-known brands in the hotel, restaurant, and retail sectors are accelerating their entry into the county-level market, reflecting optimism about the consumption prospects in these areas [2] - The rapid development of county-level hotels is highlighted, with major hotel groups expanding their presence and introducing culturally integrated products to penetrate the high-end market [2] - The consumer purchasing power in county and rural areas has significantly increased, driven by economic development and rising incomes, leading to a stronger demand for quality living [2] Group 3 - The strategy of chain brands to expand into lower-tier markets is seen as a wise move in response to market trends, as competition in first and second-tier cities intensifies [3] - The diverse and personalized consumer demands in lower-tier markets provide ample space for innovation, positioning these markets as new growth engines for consumption in China [3] - Lower-tier markets are expected to play a crucial role in promoting domestic demand and facilitating high-quality economic development [3]