Core Viewpoint - The controversy surrounding Decathlon's use of the term "virgin land" in its promotional materials highlights the brand's struggle with public perception and its identity crisis as it attempts to transition from a budget-friendly image to appealing to a more affluent consumer base [1][4][22]. Group 1: Controversy and Public Reaction - Decathlon quickly removed the controversial advertisement after public backlash, with customer service stating they are monitoring the situation [4]. - The term "virgin land" has a neutral definition in the Modern Chinese Dictionary, but its usage in this context sparked debates about the objectification of women [4][7]. - The backlash included complaints and calls for boycotts, with some consumers expressing that the term was overly sensitive while others felt it was disrespectful [7][8]. Group 2: Brand Positioning and Pricing Strategy - Decathlon was once known as a "budget paradise" for sports enthusiasts, offering low-priced products, but recent price increases have alienated its core customer base [8][10]. - The average selling price of Decathlon's products rose from 128.81 yuan to 196.32 yuan between 2022 and 2024, marking a 52% increase [10]. - The brand now faces a dilemma where it is perceived as too expensive for lower-income consumers while failing to attract middle-class consumers who seek premium products with added value [14][22]. Group 3: Financial Performance and Strategic Changes - Decathlon's global revenue growth slowed significantly from 21.3% in 2021 to just 1.15% in 2023, with profits dropping by 15.5% to 787 million euros in 2024, the lowest in a decade [20]. - The appointment of a new female CEO in 2022 initiated a brand overhaul aimed at repositioning Decathlon in the market, including a logo change and a focus on higher-end products [20][21]. - Despite these efforts, the brand struggles to provide the emotional and identity value that middle-class consumers seek, leading to a potential sale of 30% of its Chinese subsidiary, valued between 1 billion to 1.5 billion euros [21][22].