SF Holding(SZ:002352) 3 6 Ke·2026-01-12 00:21Core Viewpoint - The logistics industry is experiencing a significant shift as SF Express has successfully renegotiated its contract with Douyin, extending their partnership until the end of 2026 with a price increase, highlighting the value of high-quality service over low-cost alternatives [1][2][10]. Group 1: Background of the Situation - Initially, Douyin shifted its return logistics from SF Express to other competitors like JD Logistics and the "Three Links and One Reach" due to cost concerns, leading to a perceived split between the two companies [3][4]. - The decision was driven by Douyin's sensitivity to costs, as it sought to improve its financial performance by reducing expenses associated with high-priced logistics services [3][4]. Group 2: Service Quality vs. Cost - The transition to other logistics providers resulted in significant service quality issues, as the "Three Links and One Reach" struggled to meet Douyin's service expectations, which included rapid response times for returns [5][6]. - JD Logistics faced operational challenges during peak periods, prioritizing its own deliveries over Douyin's return logistics, leading to further dissatisfaction [6][8]. Group 3: Lessons Learned - Douyin's experience underscored the importance of service quality in logistics, revealing that cost-cutting measures can lead to poor customer experiences [9][10]. - The situation illustrated the logistics industry's "impossible triangle," where low cost, high efficiency, and good service cannot all coexist, reinforcing the idea that higher service levels come with higher costs [11][12]. Group 4: Market Implications - SF Express's return to Douyin with a price increase establishes its dominance in the high-end logistics market, where it can command higher prices for superior service [12][14]. - The logistics market is expected to bifurcate into two segments: high-end services represented by SF Express and low-cost, high-volume services provided by competitors, leading to a clearer market structure [10][12]. Group 5: Strategic Insights - The renegotiation signifies a shift in how e-commerce platforms view logistics, recognizing that high-quality logistics is essential for maintaining customer satisfaction and loyalty [13][14]. - The experience serves as a cautionary tale for other platforms attempting to prioritize cost over service, emphasizing that price wars have limits while service expectations continue to rise [15][16].