归乡记 | 小县城的残酷、温情与新生

Group 1 - The article highlights the significant changes in a small county in China, where traditional industries are declining while new industries are emerging amidst economic transformation [2][4][31] - The closure rate of traditional department stores in counties reached 37% in 2023, reflecting the struggles of small businesses against changing consumer preferences and rising operational costs [4][6] - The local fireworks industry has drastically reduced from 42 companies in 2018 to just 7 in 2024 due to stricter environmental policies and changing market demands, resulting in many workers needing to find new jobs [4][6] Group 2 - New industries are slowly developing, with the establishment of a "photovoltaic industry park" that has attracted 8 companies and created over 3,000 jobs, albeit with lower wages compared to previous employment [6][17] - Community group buying and instant retail have seen a 62% annual growth in market penetration, indicating a shift towards new business models in the county [6][31] - Young people are increasingly returning to their hometowns for employment, with a net inflow of about 1,200 individuals in 2024, marking a reversal from previous trends of out-migration [10][11] Group 3 - The education system in the county is becoming more centralized, with one school monopolizing over 85% of key university admissions, leading to a rise in the "accompanying study economy" as families rent homes in the county [19][21] - The healthcare sector shows a divide, with advanced facilities in the county hospital contrasting with outdated equipment in rural health clinics, prompting the establishment of a "county-town medical community" to improve services [25][26] - The real estate market is struggling, with new property prices dropping to less than half of their peak in 2021, affecting local finances and the viability of new industries [26][27]