36氪·2025-12-20 15:36Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the trend of foreign brands selling their Chinese operations, emphasizing the importance of deep localization to revitalize brand growth in the Chinese market [4][7]. Group 1: Foreign Brand Acquisitions - Recent notable acquisitions include Starbucks China being sold to Boyu Capital and Burger King China being acquired by CPE Source Capital [4]. - Anta has become an expert in mergers and acquisitions, and in early 2023, Baozun completed the acquisition of GAP's China operations, joining the ranks of local players reshaping foreign brands [6]. Group 2: Localization Strategy - The core logic behind these acquisitions is that only through deep localization can brands regain growth momentum in China [7]. - GAP China faced operational challenges with over 40 complex systems that were not integrated, leading to slow decision-making processes [9]. - After the acquisition, Baozun spent ten months localizing GAP China's systems, which included reducing reliance on discount promotions and achieving about 70% localization in the supply chain [10]. Group 3: Brand Positioning and Consumer Connection - GAP's strategy has shifted from discount-driven sales to creating emotional connections with consumers [14]. - The number of GAP stores in China increased from over 120 to 170, with same-store sales growing by 7% year-on-year [10]. - The brand's new positioning emphasizes classic designs that resonate with consumer culture, moving away from a purely functional approach [19]. Group 4: Challenges and Future Directions - The CEO of GAP China, Ken Huang, highlighted that the biggest challenge in transforming a foreign brand is the complexity of the entire process [28]. - The company aims to balance international brand identity with local cultural integration, likening GAP China to a cup of "Yuan Yang," combining Western coffee and Chinese tea [43][44]. - The focus is on building a strong local team and supply chain to enhance responsiveness to market demands [26][31].