Core Viewpoint - The "ban on alcohol" has significantly impacted the white liquor industry, particularly affecting brands with strong ties to government and business sectors, such as Gujinggong [1][3][32] Group 1: Impact of the Ban - The ban has deepened its effects on the white liquor industry, with varying impacts across different price segments [3][4] - Mid to high-end white liquor brands, particularly those with "political and business" characteristics, are most affected [7][10] - Stock price declines from May 17 to June 12 show significant drops for brands like Shanxi Fenjiu (-15.20%) and Gujinggong (-12.40%) [9] Group 2: Historical Context and Brand Strategy - Gujinggong's rise as a "political and business liquor" began around 2012, capitalizing on restrictions on high-end liquor consumption [11][12] - The brand successfully filled market gaps with products priced at 300 yuan and above, gaining a foothold in the local political and business market [13][14] - The brand's strategy involved a ripple effect of influence, starting from local leaders to broader business networks [15][17] Group 3: Future Adjustments and Strategies - Post-ban, Gujinggong faces a significant challenge as local political influence diminishes, impacting brand strength and product upgrade potential [32] - The company has two main strategic directions: expanding into external markets and focusing on mid to low-end products [33][39] - Expanding into neighboring Jiangsu province is seen as a viable option due to demographic ties and brand recognition among local residents [36] - Focusing on mid to low-end products within the province may stabilize performance, although this approach is viewed as a temporary measure [41][42] - Historical trends indicate that moving downmarket can be detrimental, emphasizing the need for strategic decision-making in a changing market [43][44]