「咖啡启蒙者」光环褪色，雀巢咖啡要赢得中国年轻消费者有多难？

Core Viewpoint - Nestlé, once a leader in the instant coffee market in China, is now facing challenges in attracting young consumers, necessitating a strategy to rejuvenate its brand and appeal to this demographic [2][8]. Company Overview - Nestlé, a Swiss food and beverage giant, has a diverse portfolio that includes coffee, dairy products, confectionery, beverages, and pet food, with over 2,000 brands operating in more than 100 countries [4]. - The company originated from a baby food product developed in the 1860s by pharmacist Henri Nestlé, which aimed to reduce infant mortality rates in Switzerland [4]. Coffee Business Development - Nestlé's instant coffee, Nescafé, was created in 1930 using spray-drying technology to address surplus coffee production in Brazil, becoming a staple for U.S. troops during WWII and gaining popularity post-war [5]. - The coffee segment has become a core part of Nestlé's business, with Nescafé generating approximately $10 billion in annual sales, accounting for 36% of the company's coffee business revenue [5][9]. - In 2018, Nescafé held over 70% market share in China's instant coffee market, significantly outpacing its closest competitor, Maxwell [5]. Market Trends and Challenges - The instant coffee market in China is currently valued at approximately 78 billion yuan, representing nearly half of the national coffee market, but has seen a slight decline of 1.5% year-on-year [9]. - The rise of fresh coffee consumption and changing health perceptions among consumers have led to a preference for low-sugar, no-cream instant black coffee, impacting traditional instant coffee sales [9]. - Competitors like Luckin Coffee and Starbucks have become more prominent in the minds of young consumers, overshadowing Nestlé's historical presence in the market [7][9]. Product Innovation and Strategy - In response to market changes, Nestlé has introduced new products, including upgraded classic series, zero-sugar options, and beverages like sparkling Americano, while also diversifying into various formats such as drip coffee and ready-to-drink products [9][10]. - Despite these innovations, Nestlé faces challenges in reshaping consumer perceptions, as many still associate the brand primarily with sugary instant coffee [10]. Distribution and Sales Dynamics - Nestlé has traditionally employed a "deep distribution" model, requiring distributors to purchase in bulk, which has led to inventory issues and financial pressures amid slowing consumer demand [11][12]. - Recent shifts in strategy aim to transition from a distribution-driven model to one focused on actual consumer sales, indicating a need for better engagement with end consumers [12].