我们尝遍了贵州酸汤，却记不住一个名字

Core Viewpoint - Guizhou sour soup is rapidly gaining popularity across China, showcasing significant market potential and attracting attention as a new culinary trend, despite challenges in brand establishment and market sustainability [5][11][24]. Industry Overview - The search volume for Guizhou sour soup on Douyin surged by 1966% year-on-year in the first half of 2024, indicating its rising prominence in the restaurant industry [7]. - The total output value of the sour soup industry in Qiandongnan Prefecture exceeded 2.5 billion yuan in 2024, with an annual production capacity of 160,000 tons [7]. - As of the first quarter of 2024, there were over 8,700 restaurants in China featuring sour soup, with a growth rate of over 40% in the past year [7]. Market Dynamics - Major brands like Haidilao are leading the trend by introducing sour soup as a new hotpot base, contributing to its national recognition [8]. - Despite the hype, there is currently no dominant national sour soup brand, with existing brands struggling to expand beyond regional markets [9]. - The closure rate of sour soup restaurants in major cities has exceeded 30%, indicating a disconnect between online interest and actual consumer retention [9][22]. Consumer Behavior - The popularity of sour soup is driven by cultural and social media influences, with short videos and travel experiences enhancing its appeal [13][14]. - Many consumers are trying sour soup out of curiosity rather than forming habitual consumption patterns, leading to low repeat purchase rates [15][16]. Challenges in Brand Development - The sour soup category faces difficulties in standardization and brand recognition, with many local producers relying on traditional methods that hinder scalability [17][19]. - The unique flavor profile of sour soup, heavily dependent on local ingredients and fermentation techniques, complicates its ability to attract a broader audience [19][20]. Future Outlook - The potential for sour soup to evolve into a national brand hinges on addressing supply chain stability and enhancing operational efficiency [21]. - Innovative approaches, such as integrating sour soup into diverse culinary applications and leveraging social media for marketing, are essential for its growth [25][26]. - The industry must balance between niche appeal and broader market acceptance to ensure sustainable development [27].