高端运动补位奢侈品，读懂中国高端消费的变迁

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the shift in high-end consumer behavior in China, highlighting the decline of traditional luxury brands and the rise of professional sports brands as key players in the retail space [2][31]. Group 1: Traditional Luxury Brands' Retreat - Major luxury brands, except for Hermès, have been closing stores in China since the second half of 2024, indicating a shift in market dynamics [5]. - Brands like LV and DIOR have already closed stores in key locations, reflecting the pressure on the luxury goods sector [5]. - The actions of these brands often precede their financial reports, signaling a challenging environment for the luxury industry [5]. Group 2: Rise of Professional Sports Brands - In contrast to luxury brands, high-end sports brands are expanding their presence in core urban areas, opening flagship stores and enhancing store specifications [6]. - These brands exhibit resilience during a period of slowing growth in the luxury sector, driven by high repurchase rates and strong user engagement within professional communities [6]. - DESCENTE's flagship store in Beijing, located in a prime commercial area, signifies a shift in consumer preferences towards professional sports brands [7][24]. Group 3: DESCENTE's Strategic Positioning - DESCENTE's approach is characterized by a systematic strategy that combines professional sports engagement with urban retail narratives [9][30]. - The brand's flagship store, "Future City," serves as a medium for expressing its values and connecting with consumers, moving beyond mere retail to become a space for brand storytelling [13][15]. - DESCENTE's strategy includes deepening connections with professional sports communities and establishing a presence in urban centers, thereby appealing to elite consumers [16][17]. Group 4: Changing Consumer Values - The luxury market is experiencing a transition from ostentatious consumption to more rational spending, with consumers reassessing what expenditures are worthwhile [32][33]. - The sports industry is projected to grow significantly, with the Chinese sports market expected to reach 5 trillion yuan by 2025, indicating a shift towards high-end sports consumption [35]. - As professional sports become more integrated into everyday life, brands like DESCENTE must provide not just products but also a lifestyle and community that resonate with new middle-class consumers [36].