Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent challenges faced by Wahaha Group under the leadership of its chairperson, Zong Fuli, particularly focusing on the impact of a heritage dispute and the company's aggressive strategy to streamline its distribution network by eliminating underperforming distributors [2][3][5]. Group 1: Business Operations and Distributor Management - Under Zong Fuli's leadership, Wahaha has adopted a stringent approach, cutting off distributors with annual sales below 3 million yuan, leading to sudden terminations and unresolved payments for some distributors [3][6][7]. - Distributors report increased sales targets, with some facing a 50% increase in their annual sales goals starting from 2025, and the threat of losing their distributor status if targets are not met [6][7]. - The company is undergoing a significant restructuring of its distribution network, with larger distributors taking over smaller ones to address issues like debt and product distribution [9][10]. Group 2: Market Performance and Sales Challenges - Despite being in a peak sales season, Wahaha's product presence in retail stores is reportedly low, facing stiff competition from brands like Nongfu Spring [5][6]. - Some distributors have experienced stockpiling issues, with inventory levels exceeding normal limits due to increased sales targets and market conditions [7][8]. - The company's sales performance has shown a significant increase, with a 53% year-on-year growth in beverage sales revenue in 2024, returning to market levels seen over a decade ago [13]. Group 3: Brand Perception and Future Outlook - The heritage dispute surrounding the company has raised concerns about consumer trust, particularly affecting products that rely on emotional connections, such as AD Calcium Milk and bottled water [15]. - Experts suggest that the recent sales surge may be more related to emotional consumer spending following the founder's passing rather than the effectiveness of the distributor restructuring [14][15]. - To sustain growth, Wahaha must focus on brand rejuvenation, product innovation, and modern marketing strategies to regain consumer trust and adapt to changing market demands [14][15].

Core Insights - A retro photography trend centered around the once-popular and now scarce instant film, known as "peel-apart film," is gaining traction on social media, attracting both celebrities and ordinary consumers [1][2] - The unique development effects and manual process of peel-apart film create a nostalgic atmosphere, leading to widespread discussion and imitation on social platforms [1][2] Group 1: Market Dynamics - The scarcity of peel-apart film, due to the discontinuation of production by Polaroid in 2008 and Fujifilm in 2016, has turned it into a rare resource, causing prices to soar [2][4] - On platforms like Xianyu, the price for a box of 10 sheets of Fujifilm FP-100C peel-apart film has reached between 2800 to 3300 yuan, with price increases surpassing that of gold, earning it the nickname "paper Moutai" [2][4] Group 2: Consumer Behavior - The trend has led to a surge in social media topics related to peel-apart film, with young consumers willing to pay high prices for the experience, often visiting photo studios to capture these images [2][6] - Photography institutions are also offering services that mimic the peel-apart film effect using modern cameras, catering to the demand for this nostalgic aesthetic [6] Group 3: Cultural Significance - The rise of peel-apart film reflects a broader consumer desire for "warm memory carriers" in an increasingly digital world, as people seek images that evoke emotional connections [6][8] - Despite the potential for price increases to deter some consumers, peel-apart film has established itself as a unique cultural phenomenon, symbolizing a love for retro trends and tangible memories [8]

Group 1 - The core issue highlighted is that brands relying solely on emotional appeal without solid product quality and innovation are unlikely to succeed in the market [1][2] - The emergence of new-generation consumers, who possess stronger product discernment and value judgment, indicates that product quality and innovation are crucial for brand success [2][3] - Brands must establish a systematic strategic approach, focusing on core competencies, avoiding blind expansion, and ensuring efficient operations across all stages from R&D to sales [2][3] Group 2 - Emotional consumption can drive short-term sales but is not sustainable for long-term brand development [2][3] - Brands should balance marketing efforts with a commitment to product quality and innovation to meet diverse consumer needs and enhance customer experience [3] - A rigorous approach to quality control and continuous exploration of consumer needs are essential for brands to maintain consumer trust and market opportunities [3]